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ATMOS ENERGY 2009 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT | 11
Cocklin: The interstate pipeline network is this country’s
greatest energy treasure. The market has been deregulated,
so that no one controls the large pipelines. Today the in-
dustry is extremely efficient and market-responsive. There
is really no impediment to growth, and with the prolific
amount of supply that could be available, it bodes very
well for the long-term successful future of natural gas and
a complementary energy policy. Natural gas will be help-
ful in creating a stronger economy, reducing dependence
on foreign oil and strengthening our national security.
What’s behind the concept of the “full fuel cycle,”
and why is it important to consumers?
Cocklin: It all has to do with efficiency. Now, remembering
that electricity is not a fuel and it requires a primary fuel,
such as coal, to make it, much of the efficiency of the fuel
used to make electricity is lost in generation and trans-
mission. With natural gas, 92 percent of the product that
comes from the ground can be consumed directly. In con-
trast, only 32 percent of the energy from the fuels used in
generating, transmitting and distributing electricity reaches
customers. That’s an important point for consumers to
remember when they choose new appliances. It’s also critical
for policymakers to consider when setting energy standards
and regulations in a carbon-constrained economy.