Much of our natural gas comes from Canada. Co-generation is a great technology for the environment. It that allows us to squeeze more value out of power generation by recycling a power plant's heated waste water into nearby industry. Still, cogeneration often relies on natural gas for the original energy. One still has to ask if fossil fuel is a good way to go in light of the greenhouse effect and the fact that we may someday run out.
Population growth is the biggest problem.
From 1990-2000, Washington State has seen a 21 percent increase in population. This new growth creates a need for more power production, eventhough conservation does help a little. As of the year 2001, natural gas prices are starting to rise as well. Population growth may be pushing us to the end of the era of cheap natural gas. These are the questions that are being debated.