Statement: The American Gas Association (AGA) strongly disagrees with the proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to electrify new or newly renovated federal buildings calling it, “impractical, unscientific and expensive.”
The American Gas Association (AGA) strongly disagrees with the proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to electrify new or newly renovated federal buildings calling it, “impractical, unscientific and expensive.”
“Eliminating natural gas in federal buildings is an impractical, unscientific and expensive idea that will have no environmental benefit. In reality, the demand for electricity fueled by natural gas will only increase and the costs will be borne by every taxpayer. Today, 187 million Americans use natural gas in their homes every day, more people than voted in the last election. According to the Department of Energy, natural gas is 3.4 times more affordable than electricity to heat buildings, including federal offices, and significantly more affordable than several other energy sources for the same amount of energy delivered. The American Gas Association (AGA) supports the goal of lower emissions and is investing every day to continue to decarbonize our systems. AGA will thoroughly evaluate the proposal and vigorously participate in the public comment process.
“The most practical, realistic way to achieve a sustainable future where energy is clean, as well as safe, reliable and affordable is to develop a plan that includes natural gas and the infrastructure that transports it. We have outlined the pathways in a study, Net-Zero Emissions Opportunities for Gas Utilities, that presents the significant environmental and economic advantages of gas technologies and distribution infrastructure to reach ambitious decarbonization goals. Energy policy by executive fiat, is not a thoughtful way to address emissions or maintain our nation’s vital infrastructure which delivers life essential energy and the resilience that our national economy, businesses and families need.
“The American Gas Association remains committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through smart innovation, new and modernized infrastructure, and advanced technologies that maintain reliable, resilient and affordable energy service choices for consumers.”
– AGA President and CEO Karen Harbert
Facts:
- The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that natural gas will be 1/2 – 1/3 the price of other fuels through 2050.
- DOE’s published data shows that natural gas is the most affordable energy source for residential consumers.
- Removal of efficient direct-use applications will shift gas use to the electric generation sector, which can be more costly and less efficient, and results in higher greenhouse gas emissions.
- This closes the door on high-efficiency and resilient applications like natural gas combined heat and power, which DOE recognizes as providing efficient, clean, reliable, and affordable energy.