Explainer: What Is the Role Natural Gas Plays in Decarbonizing Our Planet?

Talking about global warming, greenhouse gas emissions, and sustainability can be overwhelming. However, it’s a conversation everyone needs to join as scientists argue that the fight to save the planet from extreme weather is now or never.

At the moment, the Earth is already 1.1ºC warmer than it was in the late 1800s. Several countries, businesses, and institutions have voiced their net-zero commitments to prevent further temperature increases.

The net-zero coalition aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions to keep global warming to no more than 1.5ºC. Studies show that emissions need to reach net-zero by 2050. Otherwise, we may reach a tipping point where the effects of global warming cannot be mitigated, resulting in more frequent catastrophic wildfires, droughts, floods, and overall breakdowns in natural ecosystems.

The most recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) findings reveal that the world is set to reach 1.5ºC of warming within the next two decades unless we make the most drastic cuts in carbon emissions.

Furthermore, the IPCC 2022 report says humans are the main drivers behind issues like heat waves, glacier melt, and warmer oceans.

How does natural gas help with decarbonization?

Decarbonization is the process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions that end up in the atmosphere.

One way to reduce emissions is to use renewable energy. At the moment, the Philippines depends primarily on coal for electricity. Unfortunately, this energy source has been proven by experts to have numerous adverse effects on the environment.

When coal is burned, it releases so much carbon dioxide, which traps heat in our atmosphere causing global warming.

Coal residue also contributes to air and water pollution by releasing toxins like mercury, lead, and sulfur dioxide.

Turning to renewable energy sources like the sun, geothermal heat, water, and wind can help decarbonize the country.

In the Philippines, First Gen Corporation is one of the companies leading the transition to a decarbonized and renewed Philippines by providing energy from renewable sources and natural gas.

Its subsidiary, Energy Development Corporation (EDC)—the largest renewable energy company in the Philippines—provides geothermal energy to power our needs. It also has a growing portfolio of wind and solar energy platforms that will support the country’s renewable energy target.

But since renewable energy's technology is not yet fully developed, natural gas is being used by First Gen as the partner to renewable energy. Because renewable energy sources like sunlight and wind are not always available, there must be a more reliable source to keep up with the demand for a consistent and continuous power supply. Natural gas can effectively supplement renewable energy platforms as natural gas plants can quickly provide power in as fast as 15 minutes when renewable sources are unavailable.

Natural gas emits 60% less carbon dioxide than coal. In addition, since it does not leave behind by-products like ash, sludge, and other particulate matter, it’s considered the cleanest burning of all fossil fuels. This ‘bridge’ or ‘transition’ fuel can enable renewable energy use and eventually pave the way to the decarbonization and regeneration of the planet.

Ultimately, the end goal isn’t only cutting greenhouse gas emissions but also finding clearer, more restorative ways to consume energy. Embracing decarbonization will give us the chance to experience a greener future for the Philippines.

Learn more about natural gas and renewable energy sources on the First Gen Corporation website. Join the journey to a decarbonized and renewed Philippines. Follow First Gen Corporation on Facebook.