U.S. Shale gas production will go through Marcellus, Utica plays for decades
Thursday, September 15, 2016
The Utica and Marcellus shale gas plays are expected to account for over half of U.S. total shale gas production by 2040, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported on Aug. 22.
Both Appalachian shale gas plays have shallower geologic formation depths and proximity to consuming markets, making them favorable sites for production. This is also why they have been resilient to low natural gas prices.
They are projected to produce more than 40 Bcf/d by 2040.
Learn more: U.S. Energy Information Administration > Future U.S. tight oil and shale gas production depends on resources, technology, markets
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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.