The Influence of Shale Gas on U.S. Energy and Environmental Policy

Joint Program Report
The Influence of Shale Gas on U.S. Energy and Environmental Policy
Jacoby, H.D., F.M. O’Sullivan and S. Paltsev (2011)
Joint Program Report Series, 19 pages

Report 207 [Download]

Abstract/Summary:

The emergence of U.S. shale gas resources to economic viability affects the nation’s energy outlook and the expected role of natural gas in climate policy. Even in the face of the current shale gas boom, however, questions are raised about both the economics of this industry and the wisdom of basing future environmental policy on projections of large shale gas supplies. Analysis of the business model appropriate to the gas shales suggests that, though the shale future is uncertain, these concerns are overstated. The policy impact of the shale gas is analyzed using two scenarios of greenhouse gas control—one mandating renewable generation and coal retirement, the other using price to achieve a 50% emissions reduction. The shale gas is shown both to benefit the national economy and to ease the task of emissions control. However, in treating the shale as a “bridge” to a low carbon future there are risks to the development of technologies, like capture and storage, needed to complete the task.

Citation:

Jacoby, H.D., F.M. O’Sullivan and S. Paltsev (2011): The Influence of Shale Gas on U.S. Energy and Environmental Policy. Joint Program Report Series Report 207, 19 pages (http://globalchange.mit.edu/publication/14564)
  • Joint Program Report
The Influence of Shale Gas on U.S. Energy and Environmental Policy

Jacoby, H.D., F.M. O’Sullivan and S. Paltsev

Report 

207
19 pages
2011

Abstract/Summary: 

The emergence of U.S. shale gas resources to economic viability affects the nation’s energy outlook and the expected role of natural gas in climate policy. Even in the face of the current shale gas boom, however, questions are raised about both the economics of this industry and the wisdom of basing future environmental policy on projections of large shale gas supplies. Analysis of the business model appropriate to the gas shales suggests that, though the shale future is uncertain, these concerns are overstated. The policy impact of the shale gas is analyzed using two scenarios of greenhouse gas control—one mandating renewable generation and coal retirement, the other using price to achieve a 50% emissions reduction. The shale gas is shown both to benefit the national economy and to ease the task of emissions control. However, in treating the shale as a “bridge” to a low carbon future there are risks to the development of technologies, like capture and storage, needed to complete the task.