Introduction In 2008 two large natural gas formations were discovered in the Northeastern United States: The Marcellus and Utica shales. These discoveries transformed the United States, almost overnig

Introduction

In 2008 two large natural gas formations were discovered in the Northeastern United States: The Marcellus and Utica shales. These discoveries transformed the United States, almost overnight, from a net importer of natural gas to natural gas gluten; the cost per dekatherm of gas in the United States dropped from nearly $13.50 to under $3.00. Hydraulic fracturing, a process which has been in existence since the 1940’s, is the method leveraged to acquire natural gas from these formations.

• Maps and Graphics. (n.d.). The Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research. Retrieved from http://www.marcellus.psu.edu/resources-maps-graphics.html

Instructions

For this week’s discussion, research answers in order to discuss the following:

• What are the current concerns regarding natural gas delivery systems in the United States? What can be done to improve them?
• Natural gas is often referred to as a ‘bridge’ fuel? What is meant by this, and is this moniker valid?
• What are the benefits or consequences involved with liquefying natural gas in order to export gas acquired from the Marcellus and Utica shales?
• What impact does the discovery of the Marcellus and Utica shales have on US energy policy overall?

Justify your answers with evidence and cite your sources.