Water contamination fears have plagued the shale gas scene, particularly in the Marcellus shale, for more than a year now. As if low gas prices weren't enough of a drag, these concerns have arguably hurt the share prices of companies like Cabot Oil & Gas
One of the biggest sources of anxiety is the lack of public disclosure surrounding the identity and quantity of chemicals that are added to so-called "frac fluid," which is mostly water and sand. I've been an advocate of better disclosure since at least last August. The operators and service companies need to do this to head off moratoria and onerous regulation.
Companies ranging from Chesapeake Energy
On Wednesday morning, Range announced that it will be making available a thorough accounting of frac fluid additives at each individual well site, to both the state regulator and the general public. An example is posted on the company's website.
There's been some reluctance among big service providers like Halliburton
I doff my jester's cap to this drilling outfit for taking the lead in this important transparency push.