2014 North American Energy Outlook report states positive effects of shale
Monday, July 28, 2014
The 2014 North American Energy Outlook has been released, according to Marcellus Shale Coalition. This report details the impact that the oil and natural gas industry has had on American shale zones in places like Pittsburgh.
Other benefits cited in the report include the expansion and construction of the shale zones to complement population growth. Not included in the report are the negative impacts that the oil and natural gas industry may have on the environment and the funds needed to address those impacts.
Via: Marcellus Shale Coalition > New report: “Without energy, there’d be no economic growth in the U.S.“
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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.