The Dynamic Duo: Natural Gas and Renewables
Kate Lowery
Posted August 25, 2016
We recently talked about the essential friendship between natural gas and renewables – a point driven home today by the EIA in pointing out that monthly U.S. renewable electricity generation in 2016 has surpassed levels from previous years in every month so far this year. In March and April of this year, nonhydro renewables accounted for more than 10 percent of electricity generation in the U.S.
And what is true of renewables is also true for natural gas, as 2016 continues to set record highs in net electrical generation.
Natural gas is an essential piece of the energy mix, and will be for years to come. The safe and responsible production of natural gas from hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling is a primary driver behind America’s energy renaissance and the fact that our country is leading the world in carbon emissions reductions.
The oil and gas industry recognize the importance of renewables as part of the energy mix. Our companies are investing in renewable energy and emissions reduction technologies, and they have been for many years. In fact, we invest more in emissions reduction technologies than any other industry. Our industry understands that an all-of-the-above energy approach is the best way to ensure the security of our country while encouraging economic growth and further climate progress.
About The Author
Kate Wallace is an associate of research and content development for the American Petroleum Institute. Before joining API she was a researcher and policy analyst at America’s Natural Gas Alliance, and worked on pollinator conservation programs and state wildlife conservation policies before entering the energy industry. Kate graduated from the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in Resource Economics, and earned her Master of Public Administration from George Mason University. She loves taking her dogs on hikes, travelling and navigating the northern Virginia/DC craft beer and wine scenes with her friends and family.