New research shows Utica may have greater potential than previously thought
Friday, July 17, 2015
Recently released research claims that as much as 782 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and almost 2 billion barrels of oil could be recovered from the Utica Shale, according to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette PowerSource.
This research included statistics that were higher than research conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey as well as research from last year. The research from last year estimated potentially recoverable natural gas at 188.6 trillion cubic feet and oil at 830 million barrels.
The research partnership, which included oil and gas companies, the U.S. Geological Survey, universities, a consulting company and the National Energy Technology Laboratory, a is part of the U.S. Department of Energy, was organized by West Virginia University.
Via: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette PowerSource > New study shows greater potential for Utica Shale
Related:
Leave a Comment
Marcellus & Utica Shale Well Map
Additional Shale Maps
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.