An economist posted some interesting information regarding the value of alternative energy stocks. According to William Elord, natural gas is one of the most undervalued forms of energy, boasting a much cleaner emissions record than coal and petroleum, and costing approximately half of a barrel of oil. Though he mentions the excitement and buzz surrounding the development of solar, biodiesel and other renewables, going away from what he calls "digging in the dirt" to produced energy and utilizing renewables is something he believes that the United States just isn't ready for.

I would agree that the infrastructure for mass-production of renewable energy is a ways away, though I contend that it will take 5-10 years to transition away from fossil fuels. I don't think anyone can place a time line on the development of an operational clean energy grid. Pending legislation that provides initiative and funding for large-scale renewable projects, low-cost energy will have to come from a source with substantial supply, domestic production and an infrastructure already in place to distribute wide spread. Enter natural gas.

If natural gas companies can find a way to bridge the gap between the actual cost of natural gas and the price of storage and transportation, then natural gas could very well be the alternative energy that provides a clean, more economic means for Americans to power their lives.

For more information, see William Elord's blog entry on Seeking Alpha

Today I stumbled upon a natural gas blog titled MXpressions. Naturally I felt inclined to bounce around and explore the content within. MXenergy CEO and President Jeff Mayer—along with other MXenergy employees—offer insight into the natural gas realm, the environment and other like topics, offering customers a portal into the world of one of the largest energy retailers in North America. I for one have never heard of a CEO taking the proverbial reigns of a company blog, but I also find it crisp and refreshing, like a cool Spring rain, or the scent of wildflowers traveling on a mountain breeze... Sorry, but I just watched a soap commercial and the soliloquy of fuzzy language is washing my brain in suds of vivid happiness. 

MXpressions is a unique window into the inner workings of the mind behind an energy company that offers service all over the United States. So Georgians, this is your chance to get to know your friendly natural gas provider a little better.

How many of us have looked through the terms of service or our natural gas bill and blinked several times as our eyes crossed into oblivion? For the purpose of clarification and piece of mind, I am trying to sprinkle in various helpful guides, tips and explanations to help us all understand the world of natural gas service a little better.

With that being said, have you ever wondered what exactly a therm is? When researching companies and plans in your area, the term "therm" (that was fun) is most often associated with the published price, as in price per therm. A therm is a unit for quantity of heat that equals 100,000 British thermal units (BTU). A BTU is an amount of energy needed to raise one pound of nearly frozen water (39 degrees Fahrenheit) by one degree Fahrenheit. A therm is equal to 100 cubic feet of natural gas, and is used by gas companies to determine your actual natural gas usage.

So there you have it. If there are any additional terms or aspects of your natural gas service that may have you spinning in mild confusion, then feel free to post your comments, and I'll be happy to provide any insight I can. It's a big natural gas world Georgians, so don't be shy to ask away.

Natural gas deregulation was created to help foster competition among natural gas companies, which in turn helps you save money on your monthly bill. Natural gas marketers, as they are labeled by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), are responsible for selling you natural gas service, as well as handling the billing and customer service aspects. The Natural Gas Consumers Act serves as a consumer bill of rights, ensuring that you receive all the information you need to fully understand all aspects of your natural gas service. It also ensures that natural gas customers receive reliable, safe and affordable natural gas. It is your natural gas safety blanket so to speak.

With that in mind, there are are a few very important factors you should always consider when researching companies in your area. Here are three important tips for Georgians looking to make the switch to a new natural gas company:

1. Understand all costs associated with you natural gas service. The PSC requires each competitive natural gas marketer to provide you with the terms of service, disclosure statement and any contracts that are applicable to your service.

2. Understand the differences between fixed and variable rates.  Variable rates do change monthly according to the market, and fixed rates stay the same for the length of contract terms. Each company will outline the prices and contract terms—as well as any additional fees—associated with all rate plans.

3. Research company reputation through the PSC.