Grid reliability and the role of natural gas
Friday, May 9, 2014 - 07:31
in Physics & Chemistry
The reliability of the electricity grid is a serious concern for the United States, and one that is being amplified by the system's recent increased reliance on natural gas-fired generation. Over the last decade, the share of natural gas-generated electricity has doubled. Its increasing use is expected to continue as regulators look to reduce carbon emissions by displacing coal with gas, which provides the same amount of power with half the emissions. Additionally, natural gas is a key backup source for intermittent renewables such as wind and solar power.