How do natural gas generators work? Fueled by natural gas — either via a direct line piped in by your utility company or a tank — they generate electricity when your main power source fails.
The Basics
Natural gas generators come in an array of sizes, from portable to industrial. Gasoline generators can even be modified to use propane with a conversion kit.
Why Choose Natural Gas?
Choosing a natural gas generator comes with several benefits, including:
Convenience: If your home or workspace is already equipped for natural gas, installing a natural gas generator is simple.
Environmental Concerns: Natural gas burns more cleanly than diesel, decreasing the amount of CO2 and pollutants into the environment.
Affordability: Natural gas generators often require less maintenance than other generator types, which saves money and time.
Natural gas is usually more accessible in a disaster. Because their supply lines are underground, they are storm-resistant. And refillable tanks are sold in many stores.
Natural Gas is more easily stored than both diesel and gasoline. Diesel, for example, can grow fungus if not properly stored.
Disadvantages
There are also downsides to choosing a natural gas generator:
Up-front costs are often 10 to 20% higher than similar liquid-fueled generators. They can, however, pay for themselves over time through lower fuel costs.
Natural gas burns cleaner than traditional oil-based fuels, cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. They can also run on biological natural gas, such as methane derived from landfills.
As we move away from oil-based fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, more and more people and companies are integrating natural gas into their operations. Though it isn’t ideal for every use, natural gas can be as much of a benefit to the environment as it is to your wallet.
