A new technology was recently unveiled for improving the way we ship natural gas – by trapping it in a frozen capsule of ice. A mixture of methane and water (methane hydrate) is sprayed through a 5cm nozzle, creating a snowy substance that researchers dub ‘iced natural gas’. If it is determined to be a successful, viable method of shipment, the frosty treatment could yield myriad benefits to both gas suppliers and purchasers of natural gas worldwide.

The U.S. Department of Energy has been developing the technologies responsible for the new process, and although still only demonstrated at small scales thus far, have held up hopes for the promising breakthrough. Among the benefits of the freeze-and-ship method of transporting natural gas, the DOE hopes it will improve the stability of natural gas stores around the… Read the rest

Most states in the United States, beginning in the 1990’s have become deregulated for natural gas, meaning consumers and business owners can shop and compare natural gas suppliers among competing companies, rather than being obligated to receive service from an ‘assigned’ utility.

As with electricity deregulation, nothing about the supply, transmission or distribution of natural gas has changed for the customers in deregulated areas. Because of this seamless transition (at least from the consumer’s point of view), it lets us focus on shopping suppliers for their merits, the value of their services, reliability and of course, price.

Programs such as Gas Choice help to perpetuate awareness about gas deregulation and enable customers to easily compare natural gas prices, plans, rates and services and switch to an alternative gas supplier if they so desire. Many free… Read the rest