Major challenges for developing unconventional gas in Brazil - Will water resources impede the development of the Country's industry?

摘要

Over this decade unconventional gas has acquired increasing importance due to new techniques that have enabled its large-scale commercial exploration, particularly in the USA. Other countries are evaluating their potential for shale gas exploration. Forecasts point out that the unconventional natural gas resources might represent an increasing share of Brazil's energy supply. However, this scenario still faces technological and environmental challenges. This article analyzes whether Brazil's gas industry is prepared to develop shale gas, and if there will be water available close to potential unconventional gas resources basins in appropriate volumes and quality, to support fracturing operations. Findings show that Brazil may face challenges to use hydraulic fracturing in the adjacent water basins. The Parana basin presents the best sites in terms of water availability, followed by the sub-basins within the state of Piaui, where the water demand is low. On the other hand, the water availability in most part of the state of Rio Grande do Sul is critical. The same occurs in the sub-basin and the UGRH located in the state of Minas Gerais. The choice of the wells' location must consider the water availability and quality, as indicated in the study.