The entry of U.S. natural gas into global markets significantly changed the rules of the game. In fact, the open, transparent, competitive dynamic of the U.S. natural gas marketplace is perhaps its most important export. We point to several tangible benefits that go beyond procurement cost. Continue Reading
If China’s dominance of rare earth element supplies is the global energy transition’s “elephant in the room,” then copper is the 800-pound gorilla. China’s push for outbound investment, with attendant strategic nuances, is a hallmark of emerging concerns about raw materials supply chains. Continue Reading
The atmospheric concentration of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) — the most potent greenhouse gas known to humanity and a chemical that is frequently used as an electrical insulator — is growing and thereby contributing to global warming. Should we worry? And what can be done to mitigate the risks? Continue Reading
During a time of growing unease about critical minerals for energy and materials, actions that restrict or prevent the development of oil and natural gas imply new strategic concerns for vitally important hydrocarbons. As a source of both fuels and materials, hydrocarbons are essential for defense and non-defense applications, including food and medical security and energy technologies. Balanced thinking and policy making are crucial to ensuring a sustainable path forward. Continue Reading
Exiting Covid-19 shutdowns and one of the sharpest drops in oil and gas industry operations in history will require fortitude across the related oilfield services (OFS) businesses. In this conversation with Bernard Duroc-Danner, we explore the shifts in strategic visions for the OFS businesses and thoughts about how the OFS segment must restructure itself. Continue Reading
Part of Covid-19 recovery will entail a new round of negotiations on legislation to support infrastructure improvements and expansion. Specific initiatives could play directly to wider support for the reform of the century-old policy known as Jones Act. Continue Reading
From the 2016 bottom of about 8.8 MMBD through end of 2019, overall U.S. oil production increased 45% to roughly 13 MMBD. Now all eyes are on U.S. domestic producers, especially those occupying the shale patch. Here is what one needs to consider. Continue Reading