Natural gas is one of the most powerful tools in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while reliably and affordably providing the energy used by millions of households and businesses every day.

But a recent analysis by the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows that without critical pipeline infrastructure to move natural gas to electricity generators and other consumers, energy prices will go up and so will emissions from other fuels filling the void.

The EIA found that building no new interstate natural gas pipelines between 2024 and 2050 would result in the increased burning of carbon intensive coal for electricity generation, even as renewable energy sources are expected to grow.

As one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in the United States, Williams sees firsthand the critical role natural gas plays in a viable and sustainable low-carbon future. Natural gas supports the growth of renewable forms of energy because it enhances the reliability of the U.S. electric grid and is available on-demand while solar and wind are intermittent.

In addition, natural gas infrastructure in the United States is key to helping the rest of the world realize the environmental benefits of natural gas. LNG exports enable the environmental benefits of natural gas to be shared internationally by replacing carbon-heavy fuels while supporting economic growth.