The deep dive describes the process and infrastructure involved in the production, transportation, and regulation of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the United States. It explains that LNG is created by cooling natural gas for easier transport and outlines the various regulatory bodies that oversee both LNG facilities and the vast natural gas pipeline network. The text highlights the components of the LNG supply chain and details the mechanics of natural gas processing and transportation via interstate and intrastate pipelines, including the role of compressor and metering stations, hubs, and citygates. It also discusses different types of pipeline services offered to shippers and the challenges and developments related to pipeline capacity and constraints. Finally, the source briefly touches on the local distribution of natural gas to end-users.

This deep dive provides an in-depth look at the natural gas market in the United States, explaining its significant economic impact and outlining the physical and financial aspects of the industry. It details the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in regulating interstate transportation and sales, as well as the infrastructure involved, including pipelines and LNG terminals. The text also discusses the different ways natural gas is found and processed, differentiating between conventional and unconventional sources, highlighting the transformative effect of the shale revolution on production and exports, and analyzing the key drivers of natural gas demand across various sectors, such as power generation, industrial, residential, and commercial uses.

Matrix pricing in retail energy offers standardized, pre-calculated rates for typical commercial customers based on general usage characteristics, providing simplicity and quick quotes with boilerplate contracts. In contrast, custom pricing involves individualized analysis of larger customers' detailed energy consumption, allowing for tailored and complex pricing structures, negotiated terms, and more explicit risk allocation. The choice between these approaches is influenced by market volatility, structure (energy-only vs. capacity), transmission complexities, renewable energy policies, and the availability of innovative energy products. Ultimately, matrix pricing suits straightforward needs, while custom pricing caters to sophisticated users seeking specific solutions and risk management.