Out of all the fossil fuels used as a primary source of energy, natural gas has the least environmental impact. Its chief component is methane, making up approximately 90%.

The molecular structure of methane has one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms (referred to as CH₄), so that its combustion generates between 45% and 70% less CO₂ than other combustible fossils.

The minimum presence of sulfur, heavy hydrocarbons and other impurities in its composition makes it much more environmentally-friendly.

Specifically, the use of natural gas as a fuel for electrical power generation means that carbon dioxide emissionsare lowered by approximately 40%, compared to a conventional coal-fired plant.