We, Kratos Gas & Power, have natural gas as our passion. We realize that perhaps this passion is not yet shared by the general public — energy isn't always interesting. But you may not know the full depth of what natural gas is and does. We're here to change that! Here's a brief history, its many uses, and why natural gas is an integral part of your life.

History

Natural gas was discovered around 1000 BC, where a flame was lit from the ground in Greece. It was used in everyday life as early as 500 BC when Chinese farmers used bamboo pipelines to light gas flames and boil water for safe drinking. America came around to natural gas usage as early as 1626, when Native Americans were discovered lighting gas released around the edges of Lake Erie. Natural gas was eventually used as a light source, with gas lamps lining streets and the interiors of homes. In the early 1900s, gas pipelines began making their way across the country to service industries and communities.

Deregulation

In the early days of natural gas heating, the United States government held a monopoly over the distribution and sale of this commodity. With fears that governmental control could lead to abuse of power and expensive bills for citizens, the Natural Gas Act was passed — though it still held heavy regulations on who could sell what in various states. Later in the 1980s, after blackouts and shortages, the natural gas market opened up further, allowing private companies to compete and helping to lower prices overall.

Natural Gas in Everyday Life

Natural gas is used in many facets of life. Heating comes to mind immediately because natural gas is long heralded as the cleanest-burning fossil fuel — no odd smell while you enjoy a fire or cook your food. The "rotten egg smell" associated with gas is actually an additive deliberately included to help detect leaks in the home. Natural gas is also behind those flashy videos of top chefs sautéing vegetables or cooking in giant woks — its reliability and consistency make it the preferred choice for serious cooking. Electric stovetops, by comparison, can lead to uneven cooks and burnt food.

Beyond household uses, natural gas powers vehicles of all kinds, is used in the production of fertilizers, clothing, and even plastic. It is truly a malleable and remarkable resource.

Kratos Gas and Power constantly aims to use this resource — and the open market — to service its customers with some of the lowest prices available, saving the average household hundreds of dollars a year. You hold the power of choice. Take advantage of deregulation and make the switch today!