Rise of Natural Gas Leads to Reduction in CO2 Emissions

March 12, 2020

The United States recorded the largest decrease in carbon dioxide emissions of any country last year, which Grow America’s Infrastructure Now credits to a transition from coal to natural gas.

Grow America’s Infrastructure Now (GAIN) is a diverse coalition of businesses, trade associations, and labor groups that share a vested interest in creating jobs and strengthening the nation’s economy through infrastructure development.

Data from the International Energy Agency released this month shows carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S. were down 140 million metric tons, or 2.9 percent, in 2019 compared to the year before. The IEA states this decline correlates with a 15 percent reduction in coal use.

“Natural gas is the reason CO2 emissions are down in this country,” said Craig Stevens, former chief spokesman for the U.S. Department of Energy, during a recent panel discussion.

He said that although the coal industry attempted to retrofit some of its plants, the availability of natural gas makes it an increasingly popular alternative.

IEA data shows natural gas now accounts for 37 percent of electricity generation in the U.S. Stevens said.

The Permian Basin for instance, is expected to double gas production by the year 2025, according to data from midstream energy company Enterprise Products Partners. To keep up with the demand, three pipelines are currently in the works to transport gas out of the region.

Between 2011 and 2018, methane emissions intensity in the Permian Basin declined by 63.8 percent, while oil and gas production from the Permian increased by 211.5 percent. In the Permian Basin the amount of natural gas vented or flared in 2018 represents only 1.26 percent of all natural gas produced that same year. In fact, between 2011 and 2018, methane emissions intensity in the Permian Basin declined by 63.8 percent, while oil and gas production from the Permian increased by 211.5 percent.

ONE Future is working to ensure that natural gas achieves long-term sustainability and competitiveness in a low carbon economy, this will allow for continued economic growth while preserving America’s leadership in energy production and reduction of emissions.

For more about membership, visit our website – and consider attending our 3rd Annual ONE Future Methane & Climate Strategies Workshop on May 12-13, 2020 in Houston, TX.