Contrary to some previous reports, natural gas offers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions advantages compared with coal-fired power generation, according to a recent study by Worldwatch Institute and Deutsche Bank Climate Change Advisors. Earlier this year the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency updated its methodology for estimating methane (CH4) emissions from natural gas systems, but gas-fired generation still releases 47% less GHGs than coal from source to use, the researchers said. A controversial study by Cornell University earlier this year reported that CH4 leaks were a particular concern for gas produced from shale formations using hydraulic fracturing (see Shale Daily, April 13). But even counting higher estimated emissions of CH4 from shale gas production activities, gas-fired power generation still beats coal-fired power by a wide margin when it comes to overall GHG emissions, according to a subsequent study published by the gas-friendly American Clean Skies Foundation (see Shale Daily, April 21). IHS Cambridge Energy Research Associates in August said GHG emissions from shale gas production likely are “significantly overstated” (see Shale Daily, Aug. 25). Another recent study by the National Center for Atmospheric Research found that burning natural gas emits “far less” carbon dioxide than coal but even so, more reliance on gas won’t significantly slow climate change.
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Susquehanna Commission Settles with Gas Producers
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) has accepted settlement offers from Chesapeake Energy Corp. and J-W Operating Co. on compliance matters related to natural gas well development that the commission regulates in a portion of the Marcellus Shale.
Chesapeake Center to House, Train Marcellus Workforce
Chesapeake Energy Corp. has opened a $7 million oilfield services and training center in the heart of the Marcellus Shale that offers all of the comforts of home — and then some.
Dynegy Urges Shareholders to Approve Blackstone Merger
After looking for better deals and getting no offers, Houston-based Dynegy Inc. urged its shareholders Tuesday to approve the pending merger with an affiliate of private equity firm The Blackstone Group LP and its $4.50/share offer at an upcoming special shareholders meeting Nov. 17.
Obama Unveils Details of Energy Efficiency Incentive Program
Homeowners could receive rebates up to $3,000 through Homestar, a new federal program that offers incentives to make homes more energy efficient, President Obama said last Tuesday.
Obama Unveils Details of Energy Efficiency Incentive Program
Homeowners could receive rebates up to $3,000 through Homestar, a new federal program that offers incentives to make homes more energy efficient, President Obama said Tuesday.
Obama Unveils Details of Energy Efficiency Incentive Program
Homeowners could receive rebates up to $3,000 through Homestar, a new federal program that offers incentives to make homes more energy efficient, President Obama said Tuesday.
Markey Unveils Cap-and-Invest System to Tackle GHG Emissions
Rep. Edward Markey (D-MA) last Wednesday unveiled legislation that offers a cap-and-invest system to reduce heat-trapping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States.
Decoupling, High ROEs Favor California Utilities
Sempra Energy CEO Don Felsinger said Tuesday California offers several regulatory advantages to utilities, such as Sempra’s two in Southern California — rates not dependent on ever-increasing sales volumes, and return on equity (ROE) that is relatively generous.
E&P Reserves Disclosure Review Welcomed
Because oil and natural gas reserves are the “core” measure of exploration and production (E&P) performance, the Security and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) decision to review and evaluate reserves disclosures offers a “welcome opportunity” to strengthen and improve the rules, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) said in a report Friday.
