American Gas Association

One hundred and eighty-nine million Americans use natural gas in their homes, Americans use natural gas because it is affordable, reliable, safe and essential to improving our environment. America’s natural gas utilities are committed to continuing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through smart innovation, new and modernized infrastructure and advanced technologies while also meeting customers' needs for safety, reliability and affordability, and that’s why our customers choose natural gas.

America’s farms and ranches have been key beneficiaries of the growth in U.S. natural gas production, which means all of us who rely on a strong domestic agriculture sector are benefitting. We may not think about everything that goes into the price we pay for a loaf of bread or a gallon of milk, but this analysis shows that what we see on grocery store shelves requires natural gas. You can draw a direct line from the availability of low-cost natural gas to the cost of food on grocery store shelves globally.

In restaurants and hotel kitchens, natural gas is what fuels the stoves and ovens that deliver world-class, memorable meals. Hotels use natural gas to provide hot showers, clean linens, and to keep the lights no matter the situation. In colder climates, heated pools and saunas allow guests to relax, and fire pits keep people warm while connecting with family and friends and enjoying the outdoors. Natural gas is the reliable, affordable fuel that is central to so much of the fun we experience and the time we spend with friends and family and the world around us.

When we think of essential industries, our nation’s healthcare sector typically ranks at the top. America’s doctors, nurses, hospital staff, care providers, and countless others are an integral part of our everyday lives. But we rarely think about all the things that are critical to a functioning healthcare sector. Affordable and reliable energy is in that category.

Survey data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) show that 74% of hospitals use natural gas for space heating, and 80% of hospitals use natural gas for water heating. They also tend to consume more energy per square foot than any other commercial building type. And unlike other commercial buildings, hospitals remain open 24/7. Everything from ventilators to the lights during surgery requires a steady and reliable stream of energy.