Survey offers consumer perspective on natural gas

The expansion of the natural gas industry is a growing concern for propane retailers. A recently conducted survey offers some interesting insights on Americans’ impressions of the natural gas industry and its growth.

According to a survey conducted for Honeywell’s UOP business, a supplier of technology and equipment to natural gas producers, more than half of the people in the United States support the expansion of natural gas infrastructure. In fact, 56 percent of the people support expanded development of natural gas infrastructure, including processing facilities to clean natural gas and transportation pipelines to bring that gas to consumers.

In addition, about 75 percent of respondents agreed that the development of natural gas is driving economic growth in the U.S. Only 10 percent reported that they oppose these investments, while 31 percent are unsure whether to support infrastructure expansion.

Natural gas consumption has risen every year in the U.S. since 1990 from 19.2 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) to 26.1 Tcf in 2013. Today, more than 60 percent of U.S. residences use natural gas, rising from 50.2 million households in 1990 to 67 million households in 2013. The average residential price of natural gas has also fallen steadily since peaking in July 2008, according to the Energy Information Administration.

“The survey results demonstrate that most people recognize the importance of natural gas to the U.S. economy and support investment needed to expand its use,” said Rebecca Liebert, senior vice president and general manager of UOP’s gas processing and hydrogen business, in a press release.