The natural gas industry is taxed like every other industry doing business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition to those standard taxes – more than $1.6 billion since 2006 – operators pay what is called an impact fee. This fee, which is paid annually on a per-well basis, has generated more than $400 million in new revenue for communities over the last two years.
As for consumers, they benefit a few ways. Utility bills are lower as a result of more natural gas coming to market. Local economies where development is under way are seeing greater economic activity and job growth. In southeastern Pennsylvania, Marcellus Shale development played a significant role in saving the refineries from closing their doors. Air quality is improving too, thanks to increased use of natural gas.
