22% of global electricity is generated from Gas

Gas energy, also known as natural gas, is a type of fossil fuel that is formed from the organic material of plants and animals that decomposed millions of years ago. This form of energy is harnessed from reservoirs beneath the earth's surface using drilling and extraction techniques. It is used extensively around the globe for heating, cooking, transportation, and electricity generation due to its abundance and cost-effectiveness.

To produce electricity from gas, power plants utilize gas-fired turbines. The process involves burning the natural gas to produce high-pressure steam, which then turns the turbine blades. This mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy through a generator. The fact that it is a reliable and consistent energy source is an advantage as it can meet the demand for electricity 24/7.

Nonetheless, despite its significance in electricity generation, gas energy has a considerable environmental footprint. Its average carbon intensity is 490 gCO2eq/kWh, significantly higher than low-carbon energy sources such as wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar energy (45 gCO2eq/kWh). This means that gas energy contributes a disproportionately large share of greenhouse gas emissions in the electricity sector, exacerbating climate change.

Moreover, the combustion of natural gas also contributes to air pollution. The process releases harmful pollutants such as methane, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. These pollutants can harm human health, lead to respiratory illnesses and heart conditions. They also contribute to acid rain and ground-level ozone, which are detrimental to the environment.

In comparison, low-carbon energy sources like wind, nuclear, and solar are cleaner alternatives. They emit comparatively negligible amounts of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, making them more environmentally friendly. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and air pollution, transitioning to these low-carbon, sustainable energy sources becomes all the more paramount.