Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 12/2010

The New World of Natural Gas

John M. Deutch

October 2010

Aspen Institute

Abstract

The 6th annual Global Energy Forum in 2010 examined the recent dramatic increase in shale gas production brought about by advances in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. The discussion included geopolitical issues that could be influenced by greater gas supply, the potential for increased U.S. gas demand, and the impact of possible climate change legislation. The Forum was chaired by John Deutch, Institute Professor at MIT and former Undersecretary of Energy, Deputy Secretary of Defense, and Director of Central Intelligence.