Natural gas is a mixture of gases, mainly methane (95%), a compound with one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms (CH4). It also contains a smaller amount of natural gas liquids (NGLs) and non-hydrocarbon gases, such as carbon dioxide and water vapour. It is widely used as a fuel for cooking, heating, producing electricity and powering the engines of cars, trucks and ships. It has also being used as a raw material in the production of fertilizers and other chemicals.
Over the course of geological eras, plant and animal residues have accumulated in thick layers on the earth’s surface and ocean floor, sometimes mixed up with sand, silt and calcium carbonate. Over the time these layers have been buried under further layers of sand, silt and rock, the pressure of which, together with the resulting heat, has transformed portions of this carbon- and hydrogen-rich material into coal, oil and natural gas.
Despite the significant role of renewable energy sources, they cannot provide all the world’s energy needs today. Renewables mainly power electricity, which only meets around 18% of global energy demand. For renewables to have a bigger impact, electricity must play a larger role in other key sectors of the economy.
Natural gas can help to support renewables because it can quickly compensate for dips in solar or wind power supply and rapidly respond to sudden increases in demand. Natural gas is a good partner for hydropower, providing secure electricity supply when there is limited rainfall.