Hopes of exporting gas to Europe halted by U.S. regulations
Thursday, July 17, 2014
U.S. natural gas is in demand in Europe, especially as countries search for alternatives to Russian energy. But WKSU explains that World War II era laws keep the U.S. from exporting what was once thought to be a small amount of natural gas in the shale deposits across the country.
Sixth District Ohio Congressman Bill Johnson asserts that the shale industry could grow if export laws were changed. A bill for revamping the export laws has been passed in the House already, but awaits its turn in the Senate where it is largely opposed.
While exporting natural gas could help with economic recovery, especially in regions like Ohio, concerns remain about any new regulations, such as rising heating costs and negatively affecting businesses.
Via: WKSU > EU need for U.S. natural gas may boost OH shale boom
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Shale FAQ
What is fracking?
Fracking is a slang term for hydraulic fracturing. Fracturing is a process by which highly pressurized fluid is pumped thousands of feet into the ground to fracture rock formations. The goal is to release the natural gas that’s locked inside the rock.
Is it safe?
What most concerns people about fracturing is ground water contamination. The worry is that fractures underground, caused by the process, will extending upwards and into aquifers, releasing gas and chemicals into the ground water supply. There’s been no confirmed reports of such a thing happening. Though surface spills and drill site blowouts can lead to localized environmental concerns.
Will my water catch on fire?
Flammable water is caused by the release of methane gas into a drinking water supply. Methane gas occurs naturally and can be released by any kind of drilling, including water wells. In Pennsylvania officials fined Chesapeake Energy $1 million for contaminating ground water with methane. It was determined that the company had not properly cemented it’s boreholes and gas migrated up the well, between rock and into aquifers.