Washington, D.C. — The American Gas Association (AGA) was encouraged today by President Obama’s State of the Union remarks highlighting the importance of natural gas in an innovative and clean energy future for the nation.
“If there was ever a fuel in the right place at the right time, it is natural gas in 2012 and beyond,” said Dave McCurdy, president and CEO of AGA. “We’re glad to see the President acknowledge the many benefits natural gas provides for our energy future, not just in the State of the Union Address but also in his latest jobs report.”
President Obama stressed the need for development of “every available source” of American energy. “Natural gas is a clear leader when it comes to a clean, efficient, domestic and affordable energy source – American energy at its finest,” said McCurdy.
McCurdy added: “By continuing to increase the use of natural gas, we can make progress on our national priorities of helping to improve our economy, reduce environmental impacts and secure our nation’s energy future. Putting millions of Americans to work each day and creating independence from less stable nations through clean and efficient NGVs, natural gas is no doubt a part of the solution.”
Natural gas is an essential component in the U.S. economy, currently the dominant source of energy for heat and hot water in homes and businesses throughout this country. It is a clean energy source that meets one-fourth of all U.S. energy needs.
“We are pleased by President Obama’s strong support for America’s foundation fuel, and hope that he will incite action following his State of the Union remarks by putting in place policies that expand the use of natural gas, so that every American and our nation as a whole can benefit from this clean, abundant, domestic resource.”