Operations

Natural gas

The abundance and versatility of natural gas make it a valuable energy source to meet a variety of needs while also helping the world shift to less carbon-intensive sources of energy.

Favorable attributes drive growth

Natural gas’ abundance, flexibility and comparative environmental benefits drive projected growth more than any other energy source

All of the world’s energy sources will be needed to meet rising demand to 2040, but there will be a marked shift toward cleaner fuels, particularly natural gas. Not only are natural gas resources geographically and geologically diverse, abundant, reliable and versatile in use (power generation; residential, commercial, industrial heating and cooking; and even transportation), but also natural gas emits significantly fewer pollutants than coal power generation, including NOx, SOx, particulates, mercury, and up to 60 percent fewer GHGs.

Oil and natural gas technologies, such as horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, have unlocked vast unconventional resources. These supplies have dramatically altered the energy landscape over the past decade, particularly in North America. Natural gas usage is projected to continue to expand rapidly. We expect about 40 percent of the projected growth in global energy demand from 2016 to 2040 will be met by natural gas.

Up to 60% fewer CO2 emissions

and significant air pollutant reductions from electricity generation when fueled by natural gas as compared to coal
ExxonMobil's Role

A pioneer in the LNG industry

The LNG value chain is complex and capital intensive. There are three recurring strengths that make ExxonMobil the partner of choice at every link in that chain — proven project execution; attention to safety and the environment; and unparalleled financial strength.

Liquefied Natural Gas: Understanding one of the world's most vital energy resources

ExxonMobil LNG leadership

Fueling the future: cleaner-burning liquefied natural gas demand forecasted to triple by 2040

A broad portfolio of global liquefied natural gas operations continues to grow

Plans to expand the Golden Pass terminal could generate up to 45,000 jobs nationwide

RasGas liquified natural gas (LNG) production
Emissions and climate

Effectively managing methane emissions

Natural gas is a versatile fuel, capable of powering utilities, homes and transportation. It also emits significantly fewer pollutants than coal power generation, including NOx, SOx, particulates, mercury, and up to 60 percent fewer GHGs. As confirmed by the International Energy Agency, methane emissions do not negate the substantial climate change benefits of natural gas versus coal, but mitigating emissions can further enhance those benefits. This is a key component of ExxonMobil’s approach to developing future energy technology. The company continues to implement cost-effective methods to reduce methane and other hydrocarbon emissions in our operations.
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Natural gas meets an increasing share of world demand

Percent of primary energy demand (%)
Source: Outlook for Energy
ExxonMobil's role

Global exploration, production and sales

Through our global affiliates, our expertise in exploring, developing, marketing, and producing hydrocarbon resources is used to supply natural gas that plays a vital role in the dual challenge of meeting the world’s need for energy while managing the effects on the environment, including the risks of climate change. These affiliates include XTO Energy which is a leading oil and natural gas producer in the United States with expertise in developing tight gas, shale gas and unconventional oil resources. XTO or its affiliates operate in all major U.S. unconventional producing regions.

Outlook for Energy

XTO energy

All articles about natural gas

Liquefied Natural Gas: Understanding one of the world's most vital energy resources Today, natural gas impacts lives at an unprecedented scale, generating clean and reliable electricity. It is poised to become the fastest-growing energy type over the next two decades, and ExxonMobil leads the industry in its production, distribution and application around the world. This affordable and abundant energy source is making up a growing portion of our daily energy use and LNG is an important part of delivering cleaner-burning natural gas where it is needed most.

LNG Article • Nov. 16, 2020

ExxonMobil, IndianOil and Chart Industries to pioneer virtual pipeline initiative NEW DELHI, India – ExxonMobil India LNG Limited has signed a Letter of Cooperation with Indian Oil Corporation Limited and Chart Industries, Inc. to establish a system of transportation infrastructure to expand gas access in India. Virtual pipeline systems deliver liquefied natural gas by road, rail and waterways to areas not connected by physical pipelines.

India Article • Feb. 24, 2020

The power of natural gas Today, natural gas impacts lives at an unprecedented scale, generating clean and reliable electricity. It is a transportation fuel, powering cars, buses and even trains. And as a petrochemical feedstock, natural gas is helping manufacture more and more of our everyday goods.

Natural gas Energy Factor • Jan. 29, 2020

Energy and opportunity in Papua New Guinea From its lush rainforest landscapes and mountainous terrain to its rich cultural heritage with more than 800 recognized languages, Papua New Guinea is truly unique.

Natural gas Energy Factor • Jan. 21, 2020

Nine things you might not know about helium Helium is usually known for its party tricks. It gives buoyancy to balloons and a cartoon-like squeak to voices. But in the science world, the element helium (He) does so much more.

STEM education Energy Factor • Dec. 4, 2019