Winter is a unique time of the year. From the holidays to the promise of a new year, winter is special in so many ways. Unfortunately, cold weather inevitably leads to higher natural gas bills. We have previously discussed natural gas bill components. However, understanding a few additional elements affecting residential gas rates can […]
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Residential natural gas and propane. Keeping our homes comfortable and functional requires energy. The list of home energy uses is extensive. From heating and cooling to cooking and powering our electronics, energy plays a central role in our lives. We rely on a number of energy sources to meet our needs. According to the U.S. […]
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We usually take hot water for granted. We expect it to be available whenever we need it and in whatever quantity we desire. Our trusty water heaters work behind the scenes to meet our demands. For the most part, they are out-of-sight and out-of-mind. Energy Savings Requires Planning Like all appliances, however, they eventually fail. […]
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Natural gas has quickly become our fuel of choice in the United States according to the EIA. It is an abundant resource and reduces our dependence on foreign fuel imports. Natural gas also burns cleaner than most other fossil fuels. Natural gas is found alone or in conjunction with oil, coal, and shale. Most natural gas is […]
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Massachusetts is known for its celebrated history, rich culture, beautiful scenery, and the indomitable spirit of its residents. However, like most of New England, Massachusetts experiences significant price volatility when it comes to natural gas. There are a number of factors contributing to this scenario including extreme weather, the lack of pipeline capacity coming into […]
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Electricity Rates and Generation Fuel Mix – Residential electricity rates are largely dictated by power generation fuel costs. The United States boasts a diverse generation fuel mix. In 2013, electricity was sourced from coal (39%), natural gas (28%), nuclear (19%), hydroelectric (7%), and renewable (6%) generation resources. However, electric generation sources vary widely across the […]
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Natural gas is undoubtedly the superstar of U.S. domestic hydrocarbon resources. First, it is relatively abundant with proven reserves in excess of 318 trillion cubic feet. Second, it is the cleanest burning fossil fuel used in electric generation with carbon emissions about half that of coal. Finally, residential customers can directly use natural gas for […]
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Natural Gas Fireplace Efficiency It seems that every winter the debate arises over whether or not it is a good idea to use gas fireplaces for residential heating. Gas fireplaces account for 10% of all U.S. residential natural gas consumption. Among residential natural gas end-uses, fireplaces rank lower than gas furnaces and water heaters but […]
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Natural Gas Components – Natural gas is one of the most popular fuels available for residential energy customers. The most common residential uses of natural gas are for space heating, water heating, fireplaces, cooking and clothes drying. According us the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 55% of all households use natural gas as fuel source. Because […]
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Texas natural gas price is a key driver of the U.S. economy due to its use as a direct fuel, fuel for electric power generation, and manufacturing feedstock. Earlier this year, the U.S. Energy Information Administration released its Annual Energy Outlook 2014 with analysis and projections to 2040 on all aspects of the energy sector. […]
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