Analysis Feature -Potential North American Gas-Conversion Investment Reaches US$60B, Favors Versatile Methanol

摘要

The shale boom in North America has led to almost US$60 billion of planned investment in the country's gas-conversion industry, comprising a total of 46 projects predicated upon the GTL, MTG, methanol, ammonia and direct-reduced iron (DRI) conversion routes. Shale gas continues to be a powerful driver for manufacturing growth. Many of these projects are undergoing the complex permitting process to meet federal, state and local requirements. And while the opportunity for arbitraging the markets of natural gas and premium products is attractive to a growing number of developers, remaining issues must be addressed, particularly as these projects enter advanced stages. Companies need certainty/clarity on regulatory requirements, access to sufficient natural gas, and rapid development of infrastructure to transport supplies.