To solve the energy problem, the answer is still “all of the above”

Two fuels are better than one

Our energy systems are increasingly reliant on multiple fuels. Hybrid cars are powered by both gasoline and electricity. Hybrid heating systems are becoming increasingly popular in homes and other buildings. These systems switch between an electric heat pump and a natural gas furnace depending on ambient temperature and electricity rates.

A hybrid approach is also crucial in generating electricity from renewable sources. Solar and wind power plants only provide electricity when the sun is shining and the wind is blowing. Backup electricity generation is required to ensure reliability, and this task typically falls to natural gas peaker plants.

Therefore, in various contexts, the use of complementary fuels provides a more reliable, affordable and sustainable solution.

“There is no silver bullet for the energy transition, and the overall energy mix will change over time when it comes to electricity generation,” says Caitlin Tessin, vice president of strategy and market innovation at Enbridge. “You can’t just abandon one form of energy, especially without sacrificing reliability and affordability. As for alternatives, natural gas is 50% cleaner than coal, is reliable, abundant and domestic. We therefore firmly believe that as the transition progresses, it will play an important role in the energy mix.”