Your Home, Your Energy, Your Choice

According to Pew Research, compared with a decade ago, more Americans say protecting the environment and dealing with climate change should be top priorities for the president and Congress

From Lake Apopka Natural Gas District

Choice is a powerful tool, and when it comes to choosing the right energy mix for your home or business, the freedom to choose what best supports your lifestyle is an extremely important, yet highly personal, decision for every home and business owner.

At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), our team understands the powerful role education plays in empowering residents to select their preferred energy source, and continuously works to share factual and relevant information about the importance of natural gas and its role in building a sustainable, clean energy future.

When it comes to choosing an energy mix, sustainability is often top-of-mind for Americans. According to Pew Research, compared with a decade ago, more Americans say protecting the environment and dealing with climate change should be top priorities for the president and Congress.

In 2019, the city of Berkeley, California, became the first in the U.S. to ban natural gas, kickstarting the trend of “electrification” – a concept that proposes moving to an all-electric, single source model that eliminates the use of natural gas entirely. Since then, several U.S. cities – including San Jose, Santa Rosa and Brookline – have also proposed and passed similar legislation.

However, this “one-size-fits-all” energy approach often stems from some common misconceptions about natural gas. For instance, many people may not know that natural gas is actually the cleanest-burning fossil fuel source available (Forbes).

In addition to its clean characteristics, natural gas is also reliable. Consumers of natural gas have the luxury of taking warm showers and cooking their favorite meals, even when the power goes out. That’s why hospitals, assisted living facilities and restaurants often rely on the support of natural gas to keep their essential operations afloat.

It’s also important to evaluate the economic ramifications that could follow a mandated “electric-only” energy approach. Natural gas consumers save up to 30% on their monthly utility bills, compared to those who use only electric. So, for low-income families and senior citizens living on a fixed income, implementing natural gas bans has the potential to do more harm than good.

Thanks to Florida House Bill 919 – which prevents local governments from banning fuel sources – Florida home and business owners should maintain the power to choose the energy source that’s right for them. The bill was recently approved by the Florida Legislature and should be sent to Governor DeSantis for final review soon.

As we continue to build toward a sustainable energy future, the District is especially grateful to the policymakers that take proactive measures to ensure consumers remain in control of their energy choices.

Want to learn more about the energy sources available to you? Consider making the switch to natural gas. For more information on natural gas service for your home, business or vehicle, please contact the District Marketing Team at (407) 656-2734 x 307, marketing@langd.org or visit www.langd.org