Presentation Transcript

1. Is Natural Gas Still a Clean Energy Option? A Look at the Facts As conversations about clean energy grow louder, natural gas utilities are often part of the debate. Is natural gas still considered a clean energy option? While renewables like wind and solar are making progress, natural gas continues to play a critical role in the U.S. energy system. The reality is more nuanced than headlines suggest, especially for professionals and organizations within the natural gas utility industry. What Role Does Natural Gas Play in the Energy System? Natural gas is widely recognized for its lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil. It burns cleaner, emitting fewer particulates, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. In power generation, it has helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the past two decades. This is why many utilities still consider it a “bridge fuel” as they transition toward long-term renewable solutions. For natural gas utilities, reliability is a key factor. Unlike solar or wind, which depends on weather conditions, natural gas provides consistent, on-demand energy. This dependability remains essential for public safety, heating, and power generation—especially in colder climates or areas with limited renewable infrastructure. The Shift Toward Cleaner Operations While natural gas has its advantages, concerns remain about methane leakage during extraction and distribution. The industry has responded by implementing modern detection technologies, improved pipeline infrastructure, and stronger regulatory oversight. Reducing methane emissions remains a top priority across the natural gas utility industry. At Provident Utility Advisors, professionals with decades of experience—such as Principal Charles E. Loy, CPA—understand these challenges from a regulatory and operational perspective. With over 35 years in utility regulation, including gas rate filings and efficiency mechanisms like the Weather Normalization Adjustment Clause, Mr. Loy has helped gas companies streamline operations while addressing environmental considerations. Why Natural Gas Still Matters for Utilities Municipal and investor-owned natural gas utilities continue to serve millions of customers across the country. In many jurisdictions, natural gas supports essential infrastructure where

2. electric alternatives are either not feasible or cost-effective. This makes it a practical energy source for the near and mid-term. Provident Utility Advisors supports clients in maintaining regulatory compliance and financial stability within this evolving landscape. Their services—including full rate filing support, class cost of service studies, and utility valuations—are tailored to the realities faced by natural gas providers. These efforts help ensure that utilities can meet customer needs while adapting to environmental goals. Clean Energy Goals and Practical Realities Transitioning to low-carbon energy sources is an important goal, but it cannot happen overnight. Infrastructure changes, policy adjustments, and financial planning are all part of the process. For natural gas utilities, this means working within current frameworks while preparing for future demands. Provident Utility Advisors helps clients bridge these needs with customized consulting services. From regulatory reporting and analysis to accounting assistance and expert witness testimony, the firm offers insight rooted in real-world experience. Their focus on collaboration ensures that each client receives strategic guidance based on their unique operational environment. Quick look So, is natural gas still a clean energy option? From a technical standpoint, it is cleaner than many traditional fuels and continues to evolve with stronger environmental standards. While it may not be the endpoint in the clean energy transition, it remains a critical part of the journey—especially for the natural gas utility industry. Companies like Provident Utility Advisors play a key role in helping utilities manage this balance. With a proven track record in natural gas regulation, rate filings, and cost analysis, they help clients navigate the complexities of today’s utility environment without compromising on service quality or compliance. As the energy sector continues to shift, the need for informed decisions and tailored strategies will only grow. Natural gas remains part of the solution, and for many utilities, it’s still a dependable, cleaner energy choice backed by decades of operational and regulatory expertise. Phone: (737)-393-6056 Email: info@providentutilityadvisors.com. Visit: https://providentutilityadvisors.com/