AGA report: Record demand for natural gas set Feb. 14-15

Published on February 18, 2021 by Dave Kovaleski


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The American Gas Association (AGA) reported that 151.7 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas was delivered in the United States on Feb. 14 – the second-highest delivery day ever.

Further, 149.8 Bcf was delivered on Feb. 15, making that two-day period a record-setter for demand. This was due to extreme cold throughout parts of the country. Despite the large demand, there was sufficient natural gas supply and delivery capacity for space heating, hot water, cooking, manufacturing, electricity generation, and export agreements with foreign allies.

“Natural gas companies are able to reliably deliver for their customers even in the most challenging circumstances due to thorough preparation and a dependable and resilient delivery system, the importance of which comes into clear focus during extreme weather events like we are seeing right now in many parts of the country,” AGA President and CEO Karen Harbert said.

On Feb. 14, 69.8 Bcf of natural gas flowed to the residential and commercial sector, 27.8 Bcf was used in the industrial sector, 37.7 Bcf was used to generate electricity, and 12.6 Bcf was exported. On February 15, 68.9 Bcf went to the residential and commercial sector, 27.5 Bcf to industrial, 39.7 Bcf to power generation, and 9.8 Bcf was exported.

The previous two-day record was set on Jan. 30 – 31, 2019, when 155 Bcf and 141 Bcf were delivered or exported.

“We can deliver affordable energy 24/7/365, maintain resilience and achieve decarbonization with natural gas,” Harbert added.

The American Gas Foundation (AGF) released a study in January called, Building a Resilient Energy Future: How the Gas System Contributes to US Energy System Resilience. It explains why utilities, system operators, regulators, and policymakers should recognize that a diverse supply of energy assets, including natural gas, is critical to achieving a cleaner energy future.

The American Gas Association represents more than 200 local energy companies that deliver natural gas throughout the United States. More than 76 million residential, commercial, and industrial natural gas customers in the U.S. receive their gas from AGA members.