Marcellus and Utica production influence number of proposed pipeline projects
Sunday, May 31, 2015
A number of pipelines could take natural gas to new markets in the U.S. and Canada in a few years if proposed pipeline projects are approved.
Penn State Extension reports that 13 pipelines have been proposed, including six that would originate in the northern Marcellus play in Pennsylvania and seven in Ohio, West Virginia and western Pennsylvania. A total of 2,927 miles of pipeline could be added in 10 states. Altogether, these pipelines would transport 16.8 Bcf/d of natural gas in addition to 120,000 barrels/d of natural gas liquids out of the Marcellus Shale.
Penn State Extension offers maps of the proposed pipelines. However, the maps do not show gathering lines, project upgrades or existing pipeline expansions.
Via: Penn State Extension > Surging Marcellus Production Ushers in Wave of Pipeline Projects
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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.