As a primary energy source, natural gas can be virtually used as it is with no processing before use. Very little energy is required to extract, clean and transport natural gas. It thus offers an efficiency factor of over 90 per cent as a primary energy source. With the exception of hydropower, no other fuel provides such a high level of efficiency.

The key advantages for the environment in brief

• No conversion process releasing air pollutants
• Transmission underground, so no heavy vehicles producing noise and exhaust gases
• Non-toxic for humans, animals, soils and waterways
• Largely sulphur-free
• Free of organic nitrogen
• Combustion with minimal emissions
• Comparatively low CO2 emissions
• No dust
• No soot
• No heavy metals
• No waste disposal Problems