Natural gas has a role to play in our transition to a cleaner energy future, but too much natural gas can be a problem.
Electricity consumers will ultimately have to bear the costs when a state’s bets on natural gas fail to pay off, and UCS analysis shows that two-thirds of U.S. states may be putting their consumers at financial risk because of their overreliance on natural gas.
The good news is that states have lots of ways to reduce their reliance on natural gas and improve the odds for consumers.
Download high-resolution maps and graphics from the analysis:
- Natural Gas as a Share of In-State Electricity Production (2014)
- Increase in Percent of In-State Electricity Generation Fueled by Natural Gas (2008-2014)
- Natural Gas Capacity as a Share of Power Plants Being Built (2014-2017)
- Total Projected Natural Gas Capacity in 2017
- Power Sector Carbon Dioxide Emissions (2013)
- States at Highest Risk of Natural Gas Overreliance
- States at Highest Risk of Natural Gas Overreliance, with Moderate-Risk Ratings Included
Downloads
Related resources
Report
Storing the Future
Illinois has an ambitious goal to eliminate heat-trapping emissions from its power plants. Smart energy storage policy can help get us there.
Activist Resource
A Path Forward
We know the next four years will be a dangerous time for our country and for everyone who cares about a safe, sustainable, and just future.
Video
Sea level rise, explained by kids
Young people have a lot to say about how global warming is changing the world.
Report
Beyond the Smokestack
By investing in renewable energy, we can directly ramp down gas—and decrease its climate, health, and environmental harms.