The Marcellus Shale, considered to potentially be the world’s second largest natural gas field, contains primarily natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGLs), such a butane, ethane and propone. Yet despite the fact that the Marcellus Shale does not necessarily contain crude oil, the regional, national and global impact of this production is remarkable. A recent KMPG analysis states this:
Shale gas has the potential to turn the world’s energy industry on its head. It’s abundant. It’s cheap. It burns cleaner than fossil fuels. … For many countries that rely on natural gas imports, energy security is a concern. Shale gas could help them become more self-sufficient.
In short, the more clean-burning natural gas we continue to safely produce from the Marcellus Shale, the more affordable energy will be for consumers and manufacturers, and the end result will be a stronger, more competitive United States, and a cleaner environment. And as this Real Clear Energy map lays out, responsible American natural gas development is “creating a whole new balance of power” across the world.
