Natural gas as an energy source has certain merits and limitations. Here are some of them:
Merits:
- Clean-burning: Natural gas is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal and oil, as it emits lower levels of greenhouse gases and air pollutants when burned.
- Abundant: Natural gas is a relatively abundant resource, with significant reserves located in many parts of the world.
- Versatile: Natural gas can be used for a variety of purposes, including heating, electricity generation, and as a fuel for transportation.
- Reliable: Natural gas is a reliable source of energy, with a consistent supply that can be easily transported through pipelines or LNG carriers.
- Cost-effective: Natural gas is often a cost-effective energy source compared to other fossil fuels, such as coal and oil.
Limitations:
- Non-renewable: Natural gas is a non-renewable resource, meaning that once it is extracted and consumed, it cannot be replenished.
- Methane leakage: The extraction, processing, and transport of natural gas can result in methane leakage, which is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
- Environmental impact: The use of natural gas can have negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution from fracking and habitat destruction from pipeline construction.
- Price volatility: The price of natural gas can be volatile, which can impact the cost of energy for consumers.
- Infrastructure requirements: The production and transportation of natural gas requires significant infrastructure, such as pipelines and processing facilities, which can be costly and disruptive to local communities.
