‘Fracking’ of Shale Holds Huge Potential for Natural Gas and Oil Production

UT Austin’s Energy Institute to Study Claims of Groundwater Contamination

By Raymond L. Orbach, Director, Energy Institute The University of Texas at Austin

Hydraulic fracturing of shale (also known as “fracking”) could unleash vast deposits of natural gas and liquids. In fact, current estimates indicate the practice could provide the United States with up to 200 years of natural gas reserves.

Projections indicate vast reserves of natural gas in several areas, including the Barnett play in north Texas and Eagle Ford in south Texas. Fracking extracts natural gas and oil from these formations, respectively, that otherwise would be unattainable.

While hydraulic fracturing has been in use for decades, it has come under intense scrutiny recently from environmental groups and others who fear it poses health risks from groundwater and air quality contamination. Oil and gas regulators and other experts have found little evidence of a direct link between fracking and groundwater contamination, but remarkably no comprehensive scientific study has been conducted to date.

In response, the Energy Institute at The University of Texas at Austin is conducting a comprehensive review of the impact of fracking on groundwater. The study combines an independent assessment of groundwater contamination claims, with an analysis of the effectiveness of existing laws and policies related to fracking.

Researchers also will investigate seismic events, fugitive air emissions, and other concerns associated with fracking in areas within the Barnett, Marcellus, and Haynesville shale plays.

The goal of the study, which the UT Energy Institute is funding directly, is to promote a fact-based approach to shale gas development so that policymakers can have a sound foundation for developing appropriate rules and regulations. The Environmental Defense Fund has been involved in the design of the study, and will provide comments to researchers before a final report is made public.

Stay tuned for preliminary findings from the Energy Institute study, which we expect will be released sometime this fall.

Comments

[plumbing]

It's a good thing that people already practice using other alternatives for fuel. Natural gas generates employment.