Efficiency, flexibility in shale plays push U.S. closer to tipping point

摘要

Improved efficiency and flexibility have boosted production from U.S. shale plays, but as output nears a tipping point the nation must decide whether it will export more refined products or oil, panelists said during a recent symposium in Houston. Discussion comes as U.S. producers try to pump their way to a higher market share, though forces—namely low oil and gas prices, not enough demand and a worldwide wealth of hydrocarbons—have caused a slowdown with less drilling activity. However, flexibility will be the key when prices rise, and some plays appear better positioned than others.