All About Natural Gas
The natural gas we use to heat our homes was formed deep under the earth millions of years ago. When the dinosaurs and the plants they ate died, the remains were buried under layers of rock and soil.
Over time, the tremendous heat and pressure turned the plant and animal matter into natural gas and petroleum (oil) - that's why natural gas is called a "fossil fuel." The gas is found in layers of rock with tiny holes - the rock holds the gas like a sponge.
Natural gas companies drill into the earth to bring the gas to the surface, then purify it and add an odorant for safety. Then they send the gas to your community through underground pipelines.
Utility companies like Alliant Energy bring the gas to your home with smaller underground pipes.
Learn more:
