GasGeorgia Blog

The GasGeorgia Blog Has Moved!

2008-04-22T16:21:20Z

Hello loyal readers. Our discussion of natural gas will go on, but we've changed locations, with a fresh start and a new home. In fact, our new address at EnergyBabble.com is your place to read and talk about all things energy, with tips and news about natural gas, electricity, green energy and more.

Please feel free to comment or email us to let us know what you think about the new format. We like to think of EnergyBabble.com as an organic experience and a chance for us all to engage in the conversations about energy that make the world go round.

5 Signs that You Are a Super Conservationist

2008-03-28T21:13:25Z

While conserving energy is a noble and worthy cause, do your family and friends shun you because of your overzealous frugality when it comes to saving energy? If the following 5 signs are met with a resounding yes in your head, well then it's safe to say that you are probably that guy/girl.

1. You set your thermostat at 50 degrees during the dead of winter, encouraging others to "bundle up" and understand that sacrifices come with the territory. Your home is so cold in fact, that polar bears have begun a massive migration for the first time in history, right to your front door.

2. You stock up on Ramen, saltines and store-brand peanut butter so that you can devote grocery money to replacing the air filters in your heating and cooling system once a week.

3. You've replaced the air conditioning with one giant, industrial-sized fan, insisting that you prefer a permanent wind-blown look.

4. Opting for the lifestyle of a true conservation pioneer, you implement a strict bathing schedule—one minute, no more. In fact, you're in and out of the shower so fast, it's technically called "misting".

5. Never mind the Lyle Lovett "tidal wave" hair do. Blow dryers are a thing of the energy-hogging past. You find sticking your head out of a moving car is not only socially liberating, but provides oxygenating characteristics to your lovely locks.

Look, instead of going nuts and ostracizing all that you know and love, check out these energy conservation tips. They're equally as effective, I promise.

Natural Gas in 1971

2008-03-14T20:36:20Z

How about a shout out to the natural gas industry circa 1971, complete with wicked side burns, weatherman smile and a guitar all the ladies adore? Whoever said natural gas wasn't the cat's meow never saw Stanley here (his name was changed to maintain privacy... the guy's gotta live) talk about the positives of using natural gas at home. Just proof that smart energy isn't just a fad.

Investing in Natural Gas

2008-02-25T15:19:39Z

An economist posted some interesting information regarding the value of alternative energy stocks. According to William Elord, natural gas is one of the most undervalued forms of energy, boasting a much cleaner emissions record than coal and petroleum, and costing approximately half of a barrel of oil. Though he mentions the excitement and buzz surrounding the development of solar, biodiesel and other renewables, going away from what he calls "digging in the dirt" to produced energy and utilizing renewables is something he believes that the United States just isn't ready for.

I would agree that the infrastructure for mass-production of renewable energy is a ways away, though I contend that it will take 5-10 years to transition away from fossil fuels. I don't think anyone can place a time line on the development of an operational clean energy grid. Pending legislation that provides initiative and funding for large-scale renewable projects, low-cost energy will have to come from a source with substantial supply, domestic production and an infrastructure already in place to distribute wide spread. Enter natural gas.

If natural gas companies can find a way to bridge the gap between the actual cost of natural gas and the price of storage and transportation, then natural gas could very well be the alternative energy that provides a clean, more economic means for Americans to power their lives.

For more information, see William Elord's blog entry on Seeking Alpha

"In the Know" with MXenergy

2008-02-22T19:38:32Z

Today I stumbled upon a natural gas blog titled MXpressions. Naturally I felt inclined to bounce around and explore the content within. MXenergy CEO and President Jeff Mayer—along with other MXenergy employees—offer insight into the natural gas realm, the environment and other like topics, offering customers a portal into the world of one of the largest energy retailers in North America. I for one have never heard of a CEO taking the proverbial reigns of a company blog, but I also find it crisp and refreshing, like a cool Spring rain, or the scent of wildflowers traveling on a mountain breeze... Sorry, but I just watched a soap commercial and the soliloquy of fuzzy language is washing my brain in suds of vivid happiness.

MXpressions is a unique window into the inner workings of the mind behind an energy company that offers service all over the United States. So Georgians, this is your chance to get to know your friendly natural gas provider a little better.

Do You Know Your Natural Gas?

2008-02-14T17:07:23Z

How many of us have looked through the terms of service or our natural gas bill and blinked several times as our eyes crossed into oblivion? For the purpose of clarification and piece of mind, I am trying to sprinkle in various helpful guides, tips and explanations to help us all understand the world of natural gas service a little better.

With that being said, have you ever wondered what exactly a therm is? When researching companies and plans in your area, the term "therm" (that was fun) is most often associated with the published price, as in price per therm. A therm is a unit for quantity of heat that equals 100,000 British thermal units (BTU). A BTU is an amount of energy needed to raise one pound of nearly frozen water (39 degrees Fahrenheit) by one degree Fahrenheit. A therm is equal to 100 cubic feet of natural gas, and is used by gas companies to determine your actual natural gas usage.

So there you have it. If there are any additional terms or aspects of your natural gas service that may have you spinning in mild confusion, then feel free to post your comments, and I'll be happy to provide any insight I can. It's a big natural gas world Georgians, so don't be shy to ask away.

Three Important Items to Consider When Choosing a Natural Gas Company

2008-02-04T18:43:33Z

Natural gas deregulation was created to help foster competition among natural gas companies, which in turn helps you save money on your monthly bill. Natural gas marketers, as they are labeled by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), are responsible for selling you natural gas service, as well as handling the billing and customer service aspects. The Natural Gas Consumers Act serves as a consumer bill of rights, ensuring that you receive all the information you need to fully understand all aspects of your natural gas service. It also ensures that natural gas customers receive reliable, safe and affordable natural gas. It is your natural gas safety blanket so to speak.

With that in mind, there are are a few very important factors you should always consider when researching companies in your area. Here are three important tips for Georgians looking to make the switch to a new natural gas company:

1. Understand all costs associated with you natural gas service. The PSC requires each competitive natural gas marketer to provide you with the terms of service, disclosure statement and any contracts that are applicable to your service.

2. Understand the differences between fixed and variable rates. Variable rates do change monthly according to the market, and fixed rates stay the same for the length of contract terms. Each company will outline the prices and contract terms—as well as any additional fees—associated with all rate plans.

3. Research company reputation through the PSC.

What is Natural Gas?

2008-01-28T21:51:35Z

While it seems like I'm playing the role of Captain Obvious here, it occurred to me this morning that a bit of background information on natural gas was in order. To understand the nature of the natural gas market, rate fluctuations, supply and so on, it is first essential to understand where natural gas comes from, and to understand that it is also essential to understand what natural gas is. It is these unique components of natural gas that directly affect it's extraction, delivery and of course, why you pay what you do to enjoy it in your home.

Natural gas is odorless, colorless and shapeless. Though natural gas is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases (including methane), it emits lower levels of harmful gases when burned. Natural gas is also a fossil fuel, meaning it's formed from the decomposition of organic material—as in plant and animal remains. The compression of said organic matter is caused by the pressure of sediment and other layers on top of the organic materials, as well as the high temperatures beneath the Earth's surface. The resulting break down of carbon bonds in the organic matter leads to our friendly natural gas.

Due to the nature of how natural gas is formed, drilling a hole through the rock in which the gas is trapped allows the natural gas to rise to the surface. Thus, enters the wellhead and natural gas pipeline that help trap and control the flow of gas, which eventually finds its way to our homes and businesses. Voila!

Large Natural Gas Supply Discovered in Northern Appalachia

2008-01-23T19:03:02Z

Penn State researchers have detected a massive natural gas reservoir in the northern Appalachia. The Marcellus black shale covers hundreds of miles in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio and West Virginia, and is estimated to contain a substantial reservoir of natural gas, somewhere in the neighborhood of 516 trillion cubic feet.

The potential to produce more than 50 trillion cubic feet of natural gas annually would be nearly double current U.S. production, and could greatly impact the natural gas market once the gas is extracted, though it's too early to speculate whether natural gas prices would drop due to the supply increase. What is evident is that the find is a significant step in pushing this country toward energy independence with an abundant fuel resource that produces a smaller percentage of greenhouse gases as well.

The Many Benefits of a Natural Gas Stove—Minus the Singed Eyebrows

2008-01-18T22:59:54Z

A natural gas stove is easy to operate, and quite safe if used properly. Chefs around the globe salivate over the prospect of using a gas stove to prepare their meals. Here are a few essential reasons why you—though maybe not a culinary genius—can equally appreciate the convenience of a natural gas stove at home.

Easy to control heating—just run the dial with no more moving pots back and forth
Precise temperatures for cooking
Natural gas stoves are more energy efficient than the electric variety—just think cheaper utility bill
Natural gas stays on during a power outage
Easy installation

New Home Owner Tips for Natural Gas Safety

2008-01-11T17:22:55Z

Are you familiar with the safety precautions for the natural gas in your new home? If not, GasGeorgia has some safety tips to give you a helping hand in understanding natural gas and how to keep your family safe in case of an emergency.

Smell Gas — The smell of natural gas smells like rotten eggs. If the smell inside your home is strong, have everyone exit the house immediately. Open door and windows on the way out only if you can. Do not use anything like a home phone, light switches, flashlight, computer or any other item that might cause a spark. If the odor is faint then check your stove burners and pilot light.

Gas Appliances — Keep anything flammable away from gas appliances at all times.

Blue Color — Burning natural gas should have a blue color. Another color could signify improper venting.

Landscaping — Make sure to call your local gas company before you begin digging anywhere on your property to ensure you won’t hit a natural gas line.

Gas Appliances — All gas appliances should have proper air circulation at all times.

Keeping Warm in the Winter — Do not use natural gas appliances likes stoves to keep warm during a cold snap.

Calculator, Oh Calculator, You are a Great Inspiration to Us All!

2008-01-04T22:43:14Z

In the name of all that is convenient and efficient in this crazy world, hop on over and check out the natural gas calculator. Enter the usage amount for the household appliances you currently operate, cover, bake, sprinkle some magic dust and voila! The calculator automatically figures out the monthly and annual cost to operate these appliances with natural gas.

So what are you waiting for, a neon sign? Enjoy the piece of mind knowing that you can actually estimate your monthly natural gas bill before signing up for new service.

Top Five Reasons to Go Natural Gas

2007-12-28T23:12:27Z

Understanding the positive benefits of using natural gas in your home is the first step to enjoying the savings associated with powering your home with natural gas. Here are a few reasons to make your switch today:

Natural gas produces fewer carbon dioxide, sulfur and nitrogen emissions than coal and oil.

Natural gas works during a power outage, and a pilot light is capable of heating water almost two times faster than an electric water heater. Even a gas stove can be lit using a match, allowing you and your family to continue daily routines without interruption.

84 percent of natural gas is produced in the United States according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), so your limiting the dependence on foreign resources.

Natural gas appliances are energy efficient, saving you money and helping the environment.

The excellent safety record of natural gas is due to its constant monitoring and federal regulations, so enjoying natural gas in your home doesn't mean sacrificing the safety of your family.

Whether a current electricity customer, or moving to a new residence, switching to a cleaner natural gas allows you to still enjoy the comforts of home, while managing to save money and possibly limit your impact on the ecosystem at the same time.

Alternative Fuels for Vehicles in South Georgia

2007-12-19T21:33:42Z

The South Georgia Division of the Clean Cities Coalition is encouraging residents in South Georgia to adopt alternative fuels at work and home. Offering the potential of propane, natural gas, ethanol and even fuels made from yeast waste, the options for switching from traditional fossil fuels are becoming more and more viable.

Natural gas is a unique way to power your vehicle, with many companies offering small converters that can be installed in existing vehicles. The tax incentives for purchasing a natural gas or ethanol-based vehicle are reason enough to consider the switch. All of these options are likely to be part of Clean Cities' push in Georgia for a reduction in petroleum consumption.

One additional possibility is producing biofuel from excess chicken fats, and considering Georgia is the chicken capital of the world, it to could be an alternative energy that is cost-effective to produce for commercial and consumer use.

Planting Trees with MXenergy: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

2007-12-11T21:23:05Z

Give the gift of green this holiday season, and skip the department store earrings this time around. Natural gas marketers are joining the fight against global warming, with MXenergy's Project GreenGift offering a unique way to both go green, and offer a friendly green gift for those who matter most.

The program allows you to purchase a tree to be planted by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai (CSK) Tribes in the State of Montana, with the idea that said tree will offset a portion of carbon emissions. Your lucky recipient receives a certificate from Sustainable Forestry Management Ltd. (SFM) showing the environmental benefits associated with the tree's planting, specifically the carbon emissions offset for one year.

You can choose from four different options that include offsetting your energy bill and transportation. By planting a tree with MXenergy's Project GreenGift, you are helping the Earth's natural filtration system change harmful carbon dioxide to precious oxygen.