Why did natural gas become a more important global energy source after oil shortages in the late 1960s and early 1970s?

Prior to the late 1960s and early 1970s, natural gas was frequently treated as a nuisance by-product of oil production and was often disposed of by flaring, or burning it off, rather than being utilized as a primary energy source.1

The shift in its status occurred following the oil crisis of that era, which highlighted the vulnerability of global energy supplies and prompted a move toward diversifying energy sources. This transition was supported by significant advancements in pipeline technology, which allowed for the transport of large quantities of gas over increasingly long distances.12

Furthermore, natural gas gained favor as a "premium fuel" because its combustion is relatively free of soot, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides compared to other fossil fuels, and it produces almost no sulfur dioxide emissions. These environmental advantages led to its widespread adoption as a preferred fuel for electric power plants, effectively supplanting coal in many regions.1