Natural gas plays a crucial role in the global energy mix — but how do we actually get it from deep underground to your stove or power plant? Here’s a simplified step-by-step look at the process:

1. Exploration
   Geologists and geophysicists use seismic surveys and well data to locate potential gas reservoirs beneath the surface.
2. Drilling the Well
   A drilling rig is used to reach the gas-bearing formations. Depending on the depth and formation, vertical or horizontal drilling may be used.
3. Casing & Cementing
   Steel pipes (casings) are inserted into the well and cemented in place to prevent collapse and protect groundwater.
4. Well Logging & Testing
   Tools are lowered into the well to collect data on rock and fluid properties. Formation tests help determine the gas potential.
5. Completion
   Perforations are made in the casing at the reservoir level to allow gas to flow into the wellbore. Additional stimulation (e.g., hydraulic fracturing) may be done to enhance flow.
6. Production Begins
   Gas flows to the surface through the wellhead and is sent through separators to remove water and impurities.
7. Gas Processing
   At a gas plant, impurities like H₂S, CO₂, and NGLs (natural gas liquids) are separated. The remaining methane is what becomes pipeline-quality gas.
8. Transportation
   Processed gas is transported via high-pressure transmission pipelines to end users — homes, industries, or power plants.
9. Storage & Distribution
   Gas may be stored in underground reservoirs to manage supply and demand, and later distributed through local utility networks.
10. Monitoring & Abandonment
    Throughout the well’s life, continuous monitoring ensures safety and efficiency. Once depleted, the well is sealed and the site is restored.