The holiday season serves as an important reminder of the essential role natural gas plays in fueling the warmth and magic of our cherished traditions. From powering the lights on our trees to heating our homes, natural gas ensures that the holidays are not only merry and bright but also affordable and reliable.
Beyond its day-to-day benefits, natural gas provides a foundation of energy security, cost savings, and environmental improvements—gifts that keep on giving:
Energy Savings, A Holiday Bonus
Natural gas continues to deliver tangible financial benefits for American families, especially during the holidays. In 2023, Pennsylvanians saved over $1.8 billion compared to 2022 by using natural gas to heat their homes, cook family meals and power daily lives. On average, households using natural gas enjoy between $1,100 and $2,200 in annual energy savings, a significant relief for families managing tighter budgets.
What’s even more festive? Pennsylvania stands out as a leader in energy affordability as one of the few states with a competitive energy marketplace. This system empowers residents to compare prices and choose the supplier that best fits their needs, maximizing savings and ensuring access to energy that’s truly affordable and reliable.
In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy reports that electricity and other residential fuels are 3.4 times more expensive than natural gas, reaffirming that energy choice is the key to keeping energy bills manageable and ensuring that everyone can enjoy a warm and relaxing holiday season.
A Healthier Holiday: The Gift of Clean Air
Not only is natural gas a smart economical choice, it’s also a cleaner one. As we continue to use more natural gas, Pennsylvania has seen remarkable environmental benefits, including significant emission reductions of the pollutants that acerbate respiratory illness. These improvements translate to cleaner air, healthier communities and enhanced quality of life – all of which add to the joy of the holiday season.
A recent analysis from the MSC found that reductions in air pollutants has resulted in up to $1.04 trillion in public health benefits for Pennsylvania residents. Cleaner air helps reduce respiratory ailments, lowering the cost of healthcare, leading to fewer hospitalizations for vulnerable populations and improving the quality of life for families all year long.
“Pennsylvania’s energy leadership with the sustained development of clean natural gas is generating substantial benefits for our environment, economy and, as this data shows, the well-being of our communities,” confirmed MSC President David Callahan. “Thanks to natural gas, Pennsylvanians are breathing cleaner air than ever before, directly translating to improved quality of life for our residents.”
The Spirit of Giving: Natural Gas’s Broader Impact
The benefits of natural gas extend beyond individual households, driving economic growth and supporting local communities. Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry generates thousands of jobs, boosts local tax revenues and attracts investment. These contributions help fund schools, infrastructure and public services, creating a ripple effect that uplifts entire communities.
As we celebrate the holidays, it’s worth reflecting on the many ways domestically produced natural gas enhances our lives. From keeping energy bills manageable to fostering cleaner air and more vibrant local economies, this resource truly embodies the spirit of giving. As 2024 comes to a close, let’s appreciate the enduring gift of natural gas and the warmth, security and joy it brings to our holiday traditions and beyond.
