It is impossible to imagine a world without fuel. From powering vehicles to being a dominant source of household energy in various parts of the globe, fuel plays an indispensable role in several spheres of modern life. Different types of fuel are used for different purposes, each with a unique form and price. This article provides insight into the different fuel and gas types and how to utilize these resources effectively.

Types of fuel and gas
Fuel may be classified as solid, liquid, or gaseous based on its form. Here is a closer look at each category:

Solid fuel
Some common types of solid fuel are:

• Wood
  Fuelwood is obtained from forests and accounts for 20% of our country’s aggregate biomass energy consumption. It is primarily used in households for cooking, preserving wooden products, generating power, and obtaining direct heat. Although wood burning continues to be practiced in various parts of the world, it is rapidly being replaced by other energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas, owing to its proven health hazards.
• Charcoal
  The slow-burning of complex carbon sources, like wood, produces charcoal, a solid fuel used traditionally for cooking and heating. Being mess-free, charcoal is preferred over wood. However, its use harms the environment and general health.
• Coal
  Coal is primarily used for power generation. The process of coal combustion produces heat, which converts water to high-pressure steam that powers a turbine, generating electricity. According to 2019 statistical data, 23% of electricity in the country was generated by coal-powered plants.

Liquid fuel
Popular types of liquid fuel are:

• Petroleum
  Petroleum is typically made of crude oil and hydrocarbons found in natural gas. It can also be prepared using coal and biomass. Petroleum has consistently been the largest source of our country’s aggregate energy consumption. Gasoline is a flammable liquid fuel derived from petroleum and supplied to gas stations through pipelines. It is widely used to power cars, light trucks, motorbikes, small aircraft, and motorboats. It also powers electricity generators used as emergency power-supply sources.
• Diesel
  Most of the diesel used in the country is obtained by distilling crude oil. According to 2021 reports, diesel accounts for 77% of aggregate distillate consumption nationwide. It powers construction and farm equipment and fuels military trucks and tanks. Diesel engine generators are used for electricity generation during emergencies.
• Kerosene
  Kerosene is prepared by distilling crude oil or cracking heavier petroleum streams (cracked kerosene). This type of fuel is used worldwide as an integral source of energy, light, and heat.
• Liquefied natural gas
  Natural gas is cooled at about -260 degrees Fahrenheit to turn it into a liquid. The process of converting gaseous fuel to liquid is called liquefaction. LNG is preferred for its lower volume and ease of supply.

Gaseous fuel
Common types of liquid fuel are:

• Compressed natural gas
  Compressed natural gas, or CNG, primarily consists of methane. Since CNG is more environment-friendly than petrol and diesel, it is a popular fuel choice today. It is also relatively more cost-effective than other fuels.
• Liquefied petroleum gas
  Also known as LPG, this is a blend of different hydrocarbon gasses, particularly propane, propene, butane, and butene. It is widely used in industries and households and is supplied using pipelines. LPG is also used in bi-fuel vehicles that primarily run on gasoline.
• Methane
  Methane is increasingly used as an energy source to produce light and heat. It is also an essential component of organic chemicals. Methane is an environment-friendly fuel source, emitting less carbon dioxide and facilitating cleaner air.

As the world experiences unprecedented fuel consumption, several fuel and gas companies have opened up worldwide. Some leading fuel and gas companies are Chevron, Shell, Phillips 66, and Valero Energy. ExxonMobil is the largest oil and gas producing company in the country, as per 2022 reports. Such companies offer numerous fuel and gas services. For instance, they supply fuel and gas to refineries, deliver these resources to the market, and conduct energy exploration.

Individuals can easily access gas stations nearby to purchase superior-quality fuel and gas services for daily requirements. Many fuel and gas coupons, including e-gift vouchers and promo codes, can be redeemed at local gas stations, ensuring affordability and accessibility.