What is a common fuel used in power engineering?

Natural gas is a common fuel used in power engineering due to several advantageous properties. It is abundant, relatively inexpensive, and emits fewer pollutants compared to other fossil fuels when burned. Power plants that utilize natural gas can generate electricity efficiently through gas turbines or steam turbines in combined cycle systems, which enhance overall efficiency by capturing waste heat for additional power generation.

Natural gas can also be rapidly dispatched to meet demand, making it an ideal choice for balancing supply and demand in electricity grids. Additionally, advancements in technology have made natural gas extraction more efficient, further boosting its role in the energy sector. The ability to construct natural gas plants in a shorter time frame than some coal or nuclear facilities also contributes to its popularity among power engineers.