Context:
Natural gas has been called a ‘bridge fuel’ for countries looking to transition away from coal and oil dependency, and as they pursue a pathway towards renewables and electrification.
Relevance:
GS III: Energy
Dimensions of the Article:
- Understanding Bridge Fuel
- Key Aspects of Natural Gas
- Applications and Uses of Natural Gas
Understanding Bridge Fuel
Definition:
- A bridge fuel is a transitional fuel that powers society with minimal environmental impact while transitioning to cleaner, renewable energy sources.
- The objective is to replace current fossil fuel-dependent energy sources with renewable energy alternatives that are free from greenhouse gas emissions.
Debate and Considerations:
- The duration of the bridge and the type of energy source used are subjects of ongoing debate.
- Natural gas is often considered a bridge fuel due to its lower greenhouse gas emissions during combustion.
- Factors like enhancing national energy independence and reducing pollution-related costs are also considered when evaluating a bridge fuel.
Key Aspects of Natural Gas
Nature and Composition:
- Natural gas is a fossil fuel and, like all fossil fuels, is nonrenewable.
- It is primarily a mixture of hydrocarbon gases, with 70-90% being methane (CH4), along with ethane (C2 H6) and propane (C3 H8).
- Possible impurities can include carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and nitrogen (N).
Formation Process:
- Natural gas was formed millions to hundreds of millions of years ago when organic remains, such as plants and animals, accumulated in thick layers on the earth’s surface and ocean floors, often mixed with sand, silt, and calcium carbonate.
- Over time, these organic layers were buried and subjected to pressure and heat, transforming some into coal, others into oil (petroleum), and some into natural gas.
- Natural gas reserves are found deep within the earth, often near other hydrocarbon deposits like coal and crude oil.
Applications and Uses of Natural Gas
Processing and Utilization:
- Natural gas is not used in its raw form; it undergoes processing to produce cleaner fuels.
- During the processing of natural gas, various by-products like propane, ethane, butane, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen are extracted and can be utilized further.
Main Applications:
- Natural gas is predominantly used for electricity generation and heating purposes.
- Compressed natural gas (CNG) is utilized as a fuel for vehicles.
- It serves as a fuel for boilers, air conditioners, and is essential in the production of fertilizers, particularly ammonia.
Role as a Bridge Fuel:
- Natural gas is often termed a ‘bridge fuel’ as countries seek to transition from coal and oil dependence.
- Recognized for its cleaner energy profile compared to other fossil fuels, especially coal, natural gas emits approximately 50% less CO2 into the atmosphere, contributing to reduced climate impact.
-Source: Down To Earth
