Here is a comparison of these three energy sources and which ones are more environmentally friendly than others.
Electricity isn’t the 100% eco-friendly energy source we all thought.
Electricity is a secondary energy source; this means that that it is generated by a primary energy source. This primary source could be the burning of coal, burning of fossil fuels, nuclear power and more. The issue with electricity is we are never certain how it is produced, which is why we can’t say it is 100% environmentally friendly. There are eco-friendlier ways of producing electricity, such as wind power and solar power, but they aren’t as commonly used as the sources that aren’t environmentally friendly.
Natural gas is the cleanest fossil fuel, but not the cleanest energy source.
Natural gas a member of the fossil fuel family and is considered a greenhouse gas. However, compared to other fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, natural gas is the cleaner burning fuel. It releases more than half the emissions than other fuels when burned in an efficient power plant.
Natural gas does emit small amounts of sulfur and mercury into the air, as well as produces nitrogen oxides, which is a contributor to smog. These are all contributors to pollution, affecting our air quality.
Propane isn’t a greenhouse gas.
Propane is one of the cleanest and versatile fuels available. It isn’t toxic and emits lower greenhouse gas emissions than many other alternative options. However, even though it emits a small amount of greenhouse gas, propane itself doesn’t act as a greenhouse gas due to how insignificant the emissions are. Propane is released as a gas, which means is doesn’t spill, pool or leave residue. In the unlikely event of a tank leak, propane won’t harm the air, soil or water. Propane has also been approved as an alternative fuel by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Comparing these three energy sources is definitely an eye opener, especially when looking at electricity. We forget to consider how electricity is actually made and how its manufacturing process affects our environment. It’s important to consider all of these factors when making a decision as to which energy source to choose to power your home or cottage.
If you are interested in a more environmentally friendly option, choose propane. At Budget Propane, we can assist you in all of your propane questions and needs. Please feel free to contact us for a quote today.
Budget Propane supplies the world’s most eco-friendly gas to your home or office on demand. Call 1 888 405.7777 to have Budget Propane install tanks and lines, place remote tank monitors, or provide technical support for your home, business, or contracting job. We deliver throughout central Ontario; Huntsville, Bracebridge, Haliburton, Muskoka, Bala, Midland, Orillia, Barrie, Alliston... and more! Visit us online at www.budgetpropaneontario.com