Natural gas in a zero-emission world

The U.S. in 2018 witnessed the second-largest annual increase in energy-related emissions since 2000, even as coal-fired power generation dropped. Energy-related CO₂ emissions rose by 2.7 percent and accounted for 86 percent of all greenhouse gases in the U.S.

The majority of Americans say climate change is happening, and more than half say it is caused by human activity – just look at how lockdowns due to COVID-19 are impacting air quality.  The energy industry is listening to these concerns. The U.S. was the second-largest market for clean energy investment in 2018. While solar and wind remain the frontrunners in renewables, natural gas may be another answer.

Natural gas is cheap and readily available. It is also a primary source for electricity generation, and electricity prices tend to decline as more natural gas is used for generation. While it is cleaner than coal, it still creates significant carbon emissions every year. However, take away the CO₂ emissions and natural gas becomes a sustainable option.

Zero emission is possible. Numerous methods generate energy from natural gas without adding GHG (greenhouse gases) to the environment. For example, one option uses the carbon dioxide released from burning natural gas to drive turbines. Most of the CO₂ is recycled during the process and the rest is captured cheaply.

Natural gas provides the operational flexibility and system reliability to deliver cheaper power to consumers. However, moving to zero emissions would require changes to infrastructure and technology.

Energy companies know climate change and emissions are important to their customers. The industry needs to deal with de-carbonization, disintermediation, and decentralization, and digitalization is the key to connecting everything.

According to a Capgemini Research Institute report, technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation are playing pivotal roles in managing supply and demand, increasing efficiencies in the entire value chain, and transforming business models. Intelligence automation has the potential to save the industry billions of dollars and drive growth.

Technological convergence is taking place with maximum impact from developments in AI, blockchain, and advanced control algorithms. The frontrunners in this transformation are boosting operations and increasing customer engagement.

Embracing technology means companies can explore possibilities such as zero-emission natural gas. It will require transformation on multiple levels but, as the world works to reduce emissions, solutions for supplying cost-effective electricity while dealing with GHG responsibly hold huge promise.

With extensive experience in energy and utilities and a passion for our planet, Natasha Dowling brings innovative solutions to our clients to meet their business needs and optimize operations. Reach out to her at natasha.dowling@capgemini.com to discuss how to reach your emission goals.

Natasha Dowling

Expert in Smart homes, Smart Meter Network Operations / AMI

Engagement Director
It is truly rewarding to bring a results-oriented strategy to life for our clients and see them benefit from the solutions we create specifically for their business.
I am part of the energy and utilities market unit leadership team at Capgemini. I am currently an Account Executive for Sempra Energy in charge of delivery, revenue growth, executive relationships, client satisfaction, and contract negotiation. My team consists of 150 professionals committed to bringing our innovative solutions to our clients to meet their business needs and optimize their operations.
I have a great deal of experience in account, program, and project management, and I apply my expertise in field deployment, business transformation, and customer focus into our client engagements. I have led projects for major corporations including SoCalGas, Cal Water, LADWP, National Grid, and Hydro One, Rogers Communication and Time Warner Cable.
Whenever I am able, I provide thought leadership and speak on different topics within the industry. I have been a co-speaker at the following conferences:
Change Management for Utilities, with Gillian Wright, VP Customer Service, SoCalGas (2017)
Process Excellence for Utilities, with Diana Hampton, ITQA Leader, SDG&E (2018)
Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West, with Lily Otieno, Supply Management, SoCalGas (2019).
I started my career with the Canadian Federal Government and also worked for AT&T Canada before joining Capgemini 19 years ago.  I first joined as a consultant, and later held management roles. During this time, I gained valuable knowledge and learned how to be a leader who brings out the best in a team, while fostering a positive and results-driven environment.
Outside of work, I am active in community activities and initiatives. I co-chaired the LUNG FORCE Walk in 2019 and 2020, and I am on the board of directors for the American Lung Association in San Diego.
I enjoy skateboarding, arts and crafts, karate, and cycling with my five-year-old son. I like running, drawing, and reading in my free time. I am also fluent in French.