Frequently Asked Questions

What is natural gas?

It is a gaseous fuel that exists in the nature; its main element is Methane, which is colorless, odorless and lighter than air, in smaller quantities than other gases, as ethane, heavier hydrocarbons and Nitrogen. The proportion of elements vary depending on the origin. It is a gaseous fuel that is extracted from the earth and is transported through pipelines to its final consumption. Natural gas is a mineral fuel, therefore its availability depends on deposits adequacy (today’s forecasts are for 70-100 years). It must not be related with liquid gas, which is oil refining product, therefore its availability depends on refinery productive ability.

Why natural gas is characterized as a “clean” fuel?

When natural gas burns it emits no dust or smoke. The level of the emissions is significantly lower in comparison to the conventional fuels (coal, crude oil, diesel).

What are the advantages of using natural gas?

Apart from significant environmental advantages, using natural gas results to higher efficiency and energy savings.

What happens if natural gas reserves are depleted?

The proven gas reserves are sufficient for a 70-year period of global consumption and the prospects of new natural gas deposits increases the period to 200 years.

Why does natural gas have a bad smell?

Natural gas is odorless, but artificial chemical odorants are added to allow leak detection.

Is natural gas dangerous?

Natural gas is not dangerous, if we use it correctly. In case of leak in open areas it is diffused to atmosphere since it is lighter than air. In order to have an explosion there must be a leak in closed area, where natural gas will be mixed with oxygen and then this mixture should come in contact with flame spark. However, natural gas ignites only in 5% to 15% per volume mixtures, which means that more thin or more dense mixtures cannot explode.

Does cooking with natural gas affect the result?

Cooking with natural gas makes it possible to control the intensity of heat instantly. The flame is safe and can be turned up or down immediately. PROMETHEUS GAS S.A. proposes a shop list with electric devices, which have been tested and they comply with strict performance and safety standards.

Is natural gas the same with liquefied petroleum gas, butane or propane?

No, liquefied petroleum gas, butane or propane are refinery products and require different type of equipment for using them.

Are natural gas and liquefied natural gas the same?

Liquefied natural gas is natural gas that is cooled at a temperature of – 160 C in order to be condensed to a liquid called liquefied natural gas (LNG). So its transportation by sea is easier, since it takes up less storage volume.

When will natural gas Greek market be deregulated?

According to European Union Directive 98/30 the Greek natural gas market will be deregulated in 2007, since Greece after its request, has been exempted from natural gas market gradual deregulation. Therefore market deregulation will be subject to Greek Legislation provisions.