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What is Natural Gas?

All fossil fuels are hydrocarbons, that is, combinations of hydrogen and carbon. Natural gas (CH4) is the simplest form of hydrocarbon, containing one carbon atom to which are attached four hydrogen atoms. Compared with other fossil fuels such as coal (C24H20O2), the natural gas molecule's simplicity is its strength and the source of the physical and chemical properties that make natural gas the energy of choice in Laclede's service area.

Because of its low carbon-to-hydrogen ratio, natural gas burns cleanly without creating many of the by-products that are major sources of air pollution and acid rain. Thus, the use of natural gas heat helps maintain a clean environment.

The natural gas delivery system brings energy to end-users efficiently, thus helping conserve our nation's finite supplies of non-renewable resources.

Modern gas appliances, more efficient than ever, appeal to consumers because of reduced energy usage and concomitant reduced energy expense. Gas heat is comfortable because it delivers heat at warmer temperatures than alternative electric systems. All of these features combine to make natural gas the most cost-effective, cleanest form of energy, delivering to consumers a superior product with great economy—real value for the consumers' dollars.

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