What are the benefits and challenges of using shale gas for energy?

1 Energy security

One of the main benefits of shale gas is that it can enhance energy security and reduce dependence on foreign oil and gas imports. Shale gas is abundant and widely distributed across different regions, making it more resilient to geopolitical disruptions and price fluctuations. Shale gas can also diversify the energy mix and provide a bridge fuel to a low-carbon future, as it emits less carbon dioxide than coal when burned for electricity generation. Moreover, shale gas can create jobs and economic opportunities for local communities and industries that benefit from its production and consumption.

2 Environmental impacts

However, shale gas also has significant environmental impacts that need to be carefully managed and mitigated. Fracking requires large amounts of water and chemicals, which can contaminate groundwater and surface water sources if not properly handled and disposed of. Fracking can also cause air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, noise, and seismic activity, affecting the health and quality of life of nearby residents and wildlife. Furthermore, shale gas can compete with or displace renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, that have lower environmental footprints and higher potential for decarbonization.

3 Regulatory frameworks

Another challenge of using shale gas for energy is the lack of adequate and consistent regulatory frameworks that govern its production and use. Different countries and regions have different laws and standards for fracking, ranging from bans and moratoria to voluntary guidelines and best practices. This creates uncertainty and inconsistency for both the industry and the public, as well as potential conflicts and disputes over land use, water rights, environmental protection, and social justice. Therefore, there is a need for more transparent and participatory governance mechanisms that can balance the interests and concerns of various stakeholders and ensure the safe and sustainable development of shale gas.

4 Technological innovations

Despite the challenges, shale gas also offers opportunities for technological innovations that can improve its efficiency and reduce its impacts. For example, new technologies can enable more precise and accurate drilling and fracturing, reducing the amount of water and chemicals needed and minimizing the risk of leaks and spills. New technologies can also enhance the monitoring and measurement of shale gas emissions and impacts, enabling better reporting and verification. Additionally, new technologies can facilitate the integration of shale gas with renewable energy sources, such as biogas, hydrogen, or power-to-gas, creating synergies and complementarities that can optimize the energy system.

5 Social acceptance

Finally, one of the most critical factors that influence the use of shale gas for energy is the social acceptance of the public and the stakeholders. Shale gas faces significant opposition and resistance from various groups, such as environmentalists, activists, landowners, and indigenous peoples, who are concerned about its impacts on the environment, health, and human rights. Shale gas also faces competition and comparison with other energy sources, such as coal, nuclear, and renewables, which have different advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, there is a need for more dialogue and engagement among the different actors involved in shale gas development, as well as more education and awareness about its benefits and challenges.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?