I. GOING TO THE SOURCE

Chemical composition of natural gas

Natural gas is made up primarily of methane; Natural gas delivered through pipelines also contains hydrocarbons such as ethane and propane, and other gases such as nitrogen, helium, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and water vapor.

How it's measured (CF and BTUs)

Natural gas is measured by volume, but sold by the heating value or heat content. Volume is measured in cubic feet (CF) and heat value in BTUs (Brithish thermal units).

Where natural gas is found

Natural gas is found throughout the world. Currently, most natural gas consumed in the United States is domestically produced. As a result of new knowledge and innovative technology–plus access to new deposits–vast supplies of natural gas are available in the Gulf of Mexico.

Domestic production and transportation

Natural gas is distributed throughout the U.S. in extensive pipeline systems that extend from the wellhead to the end user. The pipeline system consists of long-distance transmission systems, followed by local distribution systems. Approximately 97% of Florida's population and commercial establishments are located in counties which are served by natural gas. Natural gas in Florida is delivered through five pipelines, including Florida Gas Transmission Company (FGT), Gulfstream Pipeline, Southern Natural Gas Pipeline, Gulf South Pipeline, and Cypress Pipeline.


II. NATURAL GAS AND FLORIDA'S FUTURE

Affordable solution to both energy and environmental issues
The U.S. Department of Energy (U.S. DOE) encourages increased use of natural gas as one method to meet its policy goals of guiding the country toward energy sources that improve our national security and protect our environment. Natual gas has far fewer harmful effects on the environment that coal or petroleum. It has virtually no sulfur emission, lower emissions of nitrogen oxides, and extremely low particulate emissions.

 

Natural Gas – A few facts:

1. Abundant supply worldwide – thought to be more plentiful than oil.
2. Less impact on greenhouse effect than oil.
3. Safe and non-toxic for industrial, commercial and residential uses.
4. Transported by underground pipeline, natural gas is almost 100% reliable.

Natural Gas and Florida

1. Florida is the fourth most populous state in the U.S., and ranks third nationally in total energy consumption.
2. Florida annually consumes more than 728 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
3. 85% of Florida's existing natural gas use is in the electric utility sector.
4. 59 of Florida's 67 counties have natural gas services available for industrial, commercial and residential use.