As one of the Nation's most abundant and in-demand energy sources, natural gas has also been one of the most debated fuel sources in state legislatures in 2013 legislative session. Driven by enhanced recovery techniques that increase the cost effectiveness of developing stranded and unconventional reserves, gross domestic withdrawals and production hit record levels in 2012. Correspondingly, prices have fallen from a high of over $14 in 2008 to $4 per MMBtu in 2013. the replacement of utility coal-fired generation with natural gas in recent years is a transition driven by cost competitiveness and heightened concerns over current and future emissions standards.
In order to achieve America's full potential to reduce energy waste, create jobs and save consumers money on their energy bills, an alignment of energy-efficiency business leaders, policy makers and lending institutions must occur.
Even in the face of Congressional inaction, President Obama can leverage executive branch power, unleash enterprise and investment, and move America toward a clean energy future that curbs climate change. Featuring 200 specific recommendations developed by more than 100 industry experts and top energy thinkers, Powering Forward provides the Administration with options to move the nation closer to a clean energy economy.
