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3/31/15
Joseph Sheaffer
3/31/15
International Energy Agency states that the flexibility of natural gas plants is
well suited to deal with the fluctuating demands for electricity each month
(IEA 2015). If natural gas drilling is able to grow significantly more, then it
has the potential to power a greater amount of the nations electricity.
Proponents of natural gas drilling are excited about the prospect of
becoming an energy dependent nation. They see hydro fracking as a much
cleaner energy source than oil, with lower carbon emissions (IEA 2015). The
supporters point to the flexibility of drilling plants, which can be built in
roughly two years (IEA 2015). Natural gas can be used to power cars and
heat homes. It can bring a tremendous amount of business to individuals and
a community as well. The introduction of hydro fracking has enabled access
to natural gas shales that were previously unable to be drilled from (National
Academy of Sciences 2015). This improved technology led to the rapid influx
in natural gas production. Since the industry exploded quickly, restrictions on
the drilling process have been very relaxed thus far, allowing for increased
production.
Environmentalists are strongly opposed to the process of hydro
fracking. The Environmental Protection Agency worries about CO2 and
methane emissions that are destructive to the atmosphere and the air we
breathe (EPA 2014). Another worry about fracking is the disposal of the water
used in the drilling process. After the water is used to obtain natural gas, it is
undrinkable and must be disposed of correctly. If not, the tainted water can
lead to a chemical runoff in ground water. Due to these fears, the EPA has
Joseph Sheaffer
3/31/15
taken action and increased the regulation of the drill sites (EPA 2014). These
steps have been made in an effort to protect the environment.
The introduction of hydro fracking revolutionized natural gas drilling,
especially in the United States. We are able to produce more of our own
energy sources. Natural gas can power cars or heat homes. It has fewer CO2
emissions than oil. However, the drilling process is dangerous to the
environment. Methane emissions damage the atmosphere, while the waste
water can contaminate ground water. The natural gas debate has two
distinct sides, with few people in the middle.
Joseph Sheaffer
3/31/15
Bibliography
1. "Natural Gas." IEA. International Energy Agency, 2015. Web. 31 Mar.
2015.
2. "Oil and Natural Gas Air Pollution Standards." EPA. Environmental
Protection Agency, 25 Oct. 2014. Web. 31 Mar. 2015.
3. "The National Academies." Our Energy Sources, Natural Gas .