SHALE Magazine Volume 1 Issue 3

THE ENORMOUS ECONOMIC IMPACT TEXAS PIPELINES HAVE ON THE U.S.

TAKE A PEEK INSIDE HOUSTON’S BUSTLING SOCIAL SCENE

IS HYDROGEN THE FUTURE OF FUEL?

HR DEPARTMENT ALTERNATIVES

U.S ENERGY’S CONCERN FOR CYBERSECURITY

HOW TO QUALIFY FOR THE SOLAR TAX CREDIT

HYDROGEN POWERED CARS VS. BATTERY POWERED CARS

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MOVING AMER IC A’S ENE RGY

The Port of Corpus Christi puts its energy into what matters most - the needs of our customers. With our proximity and connections to Eagle Ford Shale, the Permian Basin, and beyond, we are built to meet the increasing production throughout Texas and the rising demand for energy across the globe.

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52 Texas Tech Study Shows the Enormous Economic Impact of Texas Pipelines

54 The Battle Between Battery and Hydrogen-Powered Cars

62 The Great Social Debate: Twitter vs. Threads: To Tweet or To Sew?

Providing energy for the world while staying committed to our values.

Finding and producing the oil and natural gas the world needs is what we do. And our commitment to our SPIRIT Values—Safety, People, Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Teamwork— is how we do it. That includes caring about the environment and the communities where we live and work – now and into the future.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Suzel Diego

PUBLICATION EDITOR

Tyler Reed

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

David Porter

VIDEO CONTENT EDITOR

Barry Basse

STAFF WRITERS

Felicity Bradstock, Tyler Reed

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Elisa Giordano

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING

James Moreno james@shalemag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

John Collins, Ashley Grimes, Doug Humphreys, Matt Reed

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Courtney Boedeker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Felicity Bradstock, Joel Dahlenburg, Leslee Hope Haynes, Cam Hosie, Tyler Reed, Jyoti Singh, Shubhendu Tripathi, Jeannine Wheeler, Peter Yordanov

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Malcolm Perez

EDITORIAL INTERN

LeAnna Castro

HOW

LISTINGS

The Listings grade is a reflection of your business’s online listings. Each listing source is assigned a score based on how popular the site is. For example, having an accurate listing on a popular site like Google will have a greater influence on your Listing Score. The Listings grade is determined by the percentile range your business falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

REVIEWS

Review grades are a reflection of your business’s online review performance. Each grade in the Reviews section is determined by the percentile range your business falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

SOCIAL

Social grades are a reflection of your business’s social media presence. Each grade in the Social section is determined by the percentile range your business falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

WEBSITE

Website grades are a reflection of your business’s website performance, based on Google’s PageSpeed Insights. Each grade in the Website section is determined by the percentile range your business falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

ADVERTISING

The Advertising grade is a reflection of your business’s online campaign performance. The grade is determined by the percentile range your campaign’s estimated cost per click falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

SEO

The Search Engine Optimization (SEO) grade is a reflection of your business’s search engine visibility. The grade is determined by the percentile range your keywords’ estimated value per click falls into when compared to other businesses in the same industry.

We see many countries in poverty, and their only way out is to have access to reliable energy. Yet, we still have an ongoing debate pertaining to climate change, and the need to transition away from oil and gas. Because of the increase in the world’s population, the need for more energy is expected to increase. Energy demand has become crucial to human existence and growth in today’s global world. Energy is the lifeblood that drives economies, propels industries, and keeps us going daily. Its importance cannot be emphasized since it influences the trajectory of societies, the health of economies, and the well-being of individuals worldwide.

In recent years, there has been a growing drive to replace fossil fuels, notably oil and gas, with renewable energy sources. The Biden administration pledged to lessen the United States’ reliance on traditional fossil fuels. The administration attempted to address climate change, promote environmental conservation, and strengthen the nation’s energy security by promoting clean and renewable energy sources. However, how do we completely get rid of oil and gas when most of the renewable energy sources are byproducts of oil and gas? Current alternatives, such as solar and wind, are byproducts of oil and gas production, so transitioning from fossil fuels will affect the production of alternative energy sources.

While business as usual continues in Washington DC, the spin on villainizing oil and gas coming out from this administration continues. All the while asking other countries, particularly in the Middle East and groups like OPEC to supply more energy for the world’s needs instead of relying on the United States’ energy sources.

While the debate rages on in Washington DC, and all over the world, the exploration of production companies is hard at work, reducing emissions according to the EPA by 66%. While

natural gas production has increased by 179%. The exploration and production companies have been investing in advanced methane detection technologies for quite some time.

I believe we will continue to see this great debate reign on through the halls of Congress. Reading and viewing unbiased media channels that publish fair and balanced information will allow you to truly appreciate what this issue may present in the future.

This issue is dedicated to another promising fuel source hydrogen. Take your time and enjoy reading as we explore hydrogen as potentially a new fuel source for the United States.

I hope you enjoy this latest issue of SHALE Magazine and will sign up for the free digital issue. Continue to support and engage with us on our social media channels @shalemag, and join the ongoing discussion about oil, gas, and energy.

If you have a story idea or would like to be a guest. Please email me personally at kym@ shalemag.com

Until the next issue, take care!

Take a moment and read this article by Mike Sommers; this article inspired this publisher's note.

https://www.realclearenergy.org/ articles/2023/07/25/on_methane_regulations_ the_us_oil_and_gas_industry_is_a_willing_ partner_968590.html

KYM BOLADO CEO/Editor-in-Chief kym@shalemag.com

SOMETIMES WHEN I THINK ABOUT ENERGY, IT’S QUITE OVERWHELMING. THERE ARE SO MANY DISCUSSIONS GOING ON SIMULTANEOUSLY ABOUT THE FUTURE OF OUR ENERGY NEEDS FOR THE WORLD.

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THE FUTURE OF ENERGY IS HYDROGEN ... OR IS IT?

By: Tyler Reed

ACCORDING TO THE U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION, HYDROGEN IS CURRENTLY BEING USED AS A FUEL SOURCE IN CARS, TRUCKS, TO HEAT BUILDINGS, AND TO GENERATE ELECTRIC POWER IN POWER PLANTS.

sleeper pick may win the race for the next generation of green energy. Hydrogen fuel is not new to the green energy race but has largely fallen under the public radar. With hydrogen being the most abundant substance in the universe and having about 2.8X the amount of energy as gasoline, it has the potential to transform the green energy industry.

However, before you recollect the infamous Hindenburg Airship disaster, we need to take a contemporary look at hydrogen fuel and weigh its pros and cons as a savior of alternative fuels.

KEY FACTS ABOUT HYDROGEN

Hydrogen is the most abundant substance in the universe—“estimated to contribute 75% of the mass of the universe.” That means there is plenty of it, unlike the limited supply of crude oil, estimated to last about 53 years based on current world consumption levels, according to Nasdaq. com. Hydrogen is also found in various sources on earth, as it is stored in water (H2O), hydrocarbons (methane, CH4), and other organic matter.

Hydrogen is a cleaner alternative to other natural gas fuels. Methane, for example, produces carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned, making it the leader in greenhouse gasses according to the EPA. Burning hydrogen does not produce these harmful byproducts and, in some uses, such as in a fuel cell, generates only water.

HISTORY OF INNOVATIVE USES

Hydrogen is not a new fuel source. It was first used as fuel in 1806 by Swiss engineer François Isaac de Rivaz. Rivaz invented an internal combustion engine (ICE) that used a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen as fuel. About forty years later, Welsh physicist William Grove created the first hydrogen fuel cell, which used reverse electrolysis to produce hydrogen energy. These ground-

breaking inventions helped to open the potential for hydrogen fuel.

PRESENT-DAY APPLICATIONS

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Hydrogen is currently being used as a fuel source in cars, trucks, to heat buildings, and to generate electric power in power plants. Commercially, the international delivery company DHL has a fleet of “H2 panel vans,” which have the capacity to travel about 310 miles without refueling. The question that needs to be answered is, “When is this fuel source going to be able to compete with EV and oil?”

HOW IS HYDROGEN FUEL PRODUCED?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, hydrogen is produced as an energy source in a few ways.

1. Natural Gas Reforming/Gasification:

This process uses methane and hightemperature steam to produce a chemical reaction that results in hydrogen (3H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and a small amount of carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas. Furthermore, the carbon monoxide from this process can be combined with H2O (water) to produce more hydrogen through a process called “water-gas shift reaction.”

Water-gas shift reaction is the cheapest, most efficient, and most common production method and accounts for the majority of U.S. hydrogen production.

2. Electrolysis:

This method uses electricity to split the molecules of H2O, producing no greenhouse gas byproducts. However, the cleanliness of this process depends on how the electricity used in this process is generated.

3. Biomass-Derived Liquid Reforming:

Similarly to the natural gas reforming method, biomass-derived liquids, such as ethanol and bio-oils, react with high-temperature steam and a catalyst to reform into new compounds where hydrogen molecules are one of the byproducts of this process. The other byproduct is carbon monoxide, which can be reused in the water-gas shift reaction to generate more hydrogen.

4. Microbial Biomass Conversion:

This process uses microorganisms to produce hydrogen through the consumption and digestion of organic matter, such as refined sugars and wastewater. This process works in fermentation-based systems, where “microorganisms, such as bacteria, break down organic matter to produce hydrogen.” With an abundance of organic matter, existing research into fermentation technology, and its support of wastewater treatment, this process has lots of potential.

HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO OTHER ALTERNATIVE FUEL SOURCES?

The big question is how does hydrogen fuel compare to other alternative fuel sources, such as EV batteries, natural gas, solar, wind, and nuclear energy? However, it isn’t easy to do a simple comparison. The answer depends on many factors: production costs, the environmental impact of production, availability and cost of consumer products, energy storage, political interest, and safety. It may be challenging to give an accurate comparison, but creating a pros and cons list of hydrogen will help assess its viability in the green energy sector.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HYDROGEN FUEL?

• Low production impact on the environment:

Hydrogen production has the potential for zero emissions if produced by green energy sources and the potential to reuse biomass waste for fuel production. Even some gaseous byproducts of hydrogen production can be reused to generate more hydrogen. Compared to the environmental impact of mining for oil and rare earth metals (used in EV batteries), which can be ecologically devastating, hydrogen fuel production is a clear winner.

Additionally, unlike the greenhouse gas emissions from consumer vehicles, the emissions from a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle or a hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) can have nearly zero impacts on the environment.

• Faster recharge and extended range in cars:

According to various sources, hydrogen vehicles can refuel a 142-liter tank in around 5 minutes compared to 30 minutes for a similar EV range. With that, hydrogen vehicles have a higher mileage range than current electric vehicles. Additionally, hydrogen has a 70x greater kilowatt-perpound than even the best battery. That provides a hydrogen storage tank a far greater range than an EV battery of the same weight. And because hydrogen cars do not have batteries, they are lighter, can accelerate faster, and reach higher top speeds than EV cars.

• Safer than gas vehicles: Hydrogen tanks used in vehicles are built and tested to be practically riskless. They are engineered with pressure-release valves to help the lighter-than-air hydrogen gas dissipate into the atmosphere rather than gathering on the ground, like highly flammable gasoline vapors. Without flammable gasses pooling around the vehicle, there’s less chance of an explosion.

Furthermore, hydrogen has a higher ignite temperature than gasoline, reducing the risk of explosion in car accidents or gas leaks. So even if there is a gas leak and the gas comes into contact with a spark, there is a lower risk of explosion with hydrogen than gasoline.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF HYDROGEN FUEL?

• Limited car fueling stations: Hydrogen vehicles are not mass-produced, so the demand for fueling stations is low. However, the limited fueling stations may be why there is a reduction in the demand for hydrogen vehicles. This proverbial “chicken or the egg” dilemma must be resolved by an entity willing to risk the capital to invest in a relatively unproven venture.

• Needs green fuel to create green fuel: Hydrogen can be produced by using the processes mentioned above. However, the most common and efficient of these processes requires an energy source to initiate the chemical reaction of separating the hydrogen from the other elements.

Unless this energy source is also green, hydrogen production will not have zero emissions. The University of Southern California reported that solar energy could be used in electrolysis, but that would divert solar energy from helping to reduce greenhouse emissions elsewhere. That situation may produce another catch-22 if an efficient green energy source cannot be found to sufficiently and efficiently support hydrogen production without causing negative environmental impacts elsewhere.

• Difficult to store and transport:

One of the main challenges with hydrogen is storage. Hydrogen primarily exists in a gaseous state due to its low boiling point (-253o C) and has very low atmospheric pressure (11x lighter than air). That means it requires specialized tanks to store it as a compressed gas, preferred, or as a liquid or a solid.

Compressed hydrogen gas requires highpressure storage tanks, which are heavy and expensive. Liquid hydrogen requires energy to cool hydrogen in specialized equipment, making handling this equipment difficult. Solid hydrogen is stored on the surfaces of or within other solids, requiring separation at the destination and does not seem to be a viable state for the general consumer.

Especially for consumer vehicles hydrogen gas is preferred. But the large tanks required to transport and store it certainly pose a challenge,

especially when considering smaller cars. Large tanks would reduce the vehicle’s passenger and storage space.

The potential for hydrogen fuel seems promising, with overcoming the physical challenges being only a matter of time. However, one of the significant challenges to its place in the consumer market is its public perception. With the infamous history of the Hindenburg and the hydrogen bomb, hydrogen fuel may need to reform its public image and be understood as a strong contender for the future of green energy.

WHAT ARE SOME INITIATIVES TO SUPPORT HYDROGEN FUEL GROWTH?

The U.S. Department of Energy Hydrogen Fuel Program is conducting research and development into hydrogen fuel production, storage, transportation, and its potentially multitudinous uses. The agency’s R&D also supports establishing safety standards to govern hydrogen fuel production and consumption and education to equip users with the benefits and cautions of hydrogen fuel. Ensuring an accurate perspective of hydrogen fuel is vital for public buy-in of this technology.

In support of this research and development, the Biden-Harris Administration recently released the U.S. National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap, “a comprehensive framework for accelerating the production, processing, delivery, storage, and use of clean hydrogen.” This initiative hopes to achieve “commercial-scale hydrogen deployment” to build a robust clean energy economy, move away from carbon-based fuels, and reduce CO2 emissions by 16% by 2050. However, hydrogen fueled products need to be economical for the average American. A leader in EV cars, Tesla’s goal is to create a more “sustainable energy economy,” which means building an affordable product. If hydrogen-fueled products are not affordable for the average person, their environmental impact will be limited.

According to Forbes, The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax incentives for consumers to purchase green energy vehicles. Although EV vehicles are ahead in the consumer market, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will also receive this tax benefit. This initiative could help to deal with the market catch-22 hydrogen cars seem to be stuck in.

THE FINAL WORD ON HYDROGEN

Hydrogen fuel still has a ways to go before it becomes a common energy fuel in American households. The R&D for hydrogen fuel spans globally, according to the Financial Times, and is trending in the right direction to become a leader in green energy. What needs to happen is there needs to be more public consumption of hydrogen fuel. Cities need to start supplementing their energy needs with hydrogen, and fueling stations need to be built so that hydrogen can become a fixture in the public energy market.

Furthermore, the public needs to be aware of hydrogen fuel's economic and environmental benefits and realize it is safe. The fastest way to do this may be with hydrogen-fueled vehicles for the average consumer. Tesla has helped to create an attractive public image for EV vehicles, making them sporty and affordable. They also took risks and invested in making the technology convenient for the consumer. Hydrogen-fueled cars need someone to take the jump and build the infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles.

STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE BUSINESS OF ENERGY

At Shale Magazine, we keep our fingers on the pulse of the energy industry so that our readers can be informed, not influenced. With accurate, fact-based reporting we shed light on issues like the future of hydrogen energy that matter most to green energy industry stakeholders. Stay connected with us by checking out our latest issues and learning more about how the energy reformation is evolving.

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GLOBAL ENERGY UPDATE: THE GREEN POWER TRANSITION

By: Tyler Reed, MBA

The face of energy is transitioning from dependence on fossil fuels to renewable and clean energy solutions. With pressure from the current Administration and mounting climate concerns, nations across the globe are rallying behind the green energy movement. The efforts to transition to clean energy represent the convictions of a massive industry. According to the International Energy Agency, an estimated 1.7 trillion dollars will be invested in clean energy in 2023.

Clearly, there is a lot to cover in the realm of renewable energy. You can rely on Shale Magazine to be your resource for energy insight. We’ll cover the latest news on the green energy transition and how it impacts the industry.

THE GREEN TRANSITION: RENEWABLES

Investment in clean energy has risen significantly since 2021. As the world transitions to green energy, solar, wind, hydro, lithium, and nuclear power, all make up a significant portion of the global energy supply. Though the world still has a long

way to go before total dependence on renewable energy, the advancing technology and clean energy investment could provide a greener energy future.

With energy costs soaring to record highs over the past few years, many nations are doubling down on efforts to increase affordable green energy production. Renewable energy is a current buzzword of the green movement. The energy sector is rapidly evolving to help the planet move toward reliable and renewable power solutions.

SOLAR POWER

Solar energy is often the first thing that comes to mind when discussing renewable energy solutions. This energy option utilizes the sun’s rays to produce electricity via solar panels. Solar technology has seen incredible advances since it first became available. Though it is still relatively costly, many nations are making the investment in solar power.

Portugal developed a floating solar farm within a stagnant reservoir. This solar field takes up no land space and has the potential to power approximately 1500 homes in the local area. This

brilliant idea could be a potential avenue for solar power companies and designers to explore moving forward. If this creative solution is explored further, it could drastically change how we view solar energy.

In a recent update by ScienceDaily, solar energy could take on a more elemental form in the future. Instead of producing solar energy via solar panels, this innovative solution utilizes

solar heat transferred to stones and other elements found in the ground. By converting solar heat to energy using rocks, scientists can use thermal energy storage to produce electricity. If this technology is explored further, it could reduce the dependence on costly batteries to store solar energy.

WIND ENERGY

Harnessing the power of the wind to produce electricity is

hardly a new technology. Recently, wind power technology has the energy sector excited about the transition to green power. There is vast potential in utilizing wind power to supply electricity to the global power grid, and has several energy investors jumping into this renewable energy resource.

Wind power makes up roughly 10% of the United States’ electricity produced by renewable resources. As one of the most

significant contributors to renewable energy, wind power could be a viable source for transitioning to clean power production.

The Department of Energy recently awarded Kansas State University its prize for the 2023 Collegiate Wind Competition. This annual competition challenges college students to create viable solutions for the energy crisis. The winners of this competition have proposed economic strategies for

harnessing wind power that are amenable to production and environmental operations. The brilliant minds working on these projects see a bright future in harnessing the wind for energy.

Furthermore, the Department of Energy recently conducted a competition to advance technology in floating offshore wind energy production. This technology could revolutionize and dramatically increase the energy

produced by wind turbines. With the potential in offshore turbines, transitioning to green energy could be spearheaded by offshore wind power production.

HYDRO: WAVE ENERGY

One of the most up-and-coming renewable energy sources is wave power. This innovative technology utilizes the oscillating currents in bodies of water to produce energy. With more than 70% of the globe covered in water, the potential of wave energy could be a most abundant resource for energy production. This budding technology is vastly unexplored but could have exciting prospects. Several European countries are estimating a significant boon in wave energy in the oncoming years.

However, because this technology is so new, it is yet to be thoroughly investigated by lawmakers and agencies. There are currently no licensing agencies to officially license prototypes for technological pioneers for wave energy. Its lack of support could prove a fatal flaw in a massive renewable energy resource. As this technology progresses, the lack of planning and licensing support could hamper wave power’s progress in the early stages of development.

Of course, with any rising technology, there is cause for concern. Many are concerned about the environmental impacts wave energy technology could have. As investors produce prototypes, they must take into account the natural environment for oceanic creatures and plant life. While these concerns are not impossible to overcome, they can present challenges to developers.

LITHIUM: ENERGY STORAGE

Lithium batteries are leading the charge in climate change. As a crucial component of electric vehicles, lithium batteries are paramount to the green energy transition. The market for electric

As the world transitions to green energy, solar, wind, hydro, lithium, and nuclear power, all make up a significant portion of the global energy supply.

cars has skyrocketed over the past several years, leading to a natural demand for advancing lithium production.

Lithium production is primarily found in South American nations like Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. These nations make up the lithium triangle, which supplies upwards of 60% of the world’s lithium. However, recent restrictions from Chile have some investors concerned about the lithium supply. The Chilean government has proposed strict holdings on their lithium supply, which could lead to a shortage as demand increases.

While Chile may be cracking down on lithium exportation, this presents other opportunities for other lithium-rich nations to increase their production rates of the world’s lightest metal. In California, the Salton Sea has vast quantities of lithium that could help replenish the supply. This area is known as Lithium Valley with its rich potential and prosperous lithium production. This deposit of the vital electric battery component could prove to be a game-changer in the face of American green energy production.

NUCLEAR POWER

The proposed emission restrictions by President Biden have recently struck nuclear power plants across the nation. If these restrictions follow through, nuclear power plants would be forced to install costly equipment to trap emissions, make the switch to lower-emission power sources (like hydrogen), or face shutdown. The impending restrictions could cost nuclear power plants billions over the next ten years.

The restrictions stem from nuclear power plants’ reliance on coal to create electricity. Biden’s proposal could prove to be devastating to the coal industry and atomic energy in the United States.

However, the future of nuclear power is not all bleak. Several nations in Europe and Asia have committed to increasing nuclear power efforts. Countries like France and China have increased their investment in nuclear energy. Globally, nuclear power has vast potential for creating clean energy solutions.

Additionally, recent breakthroughs in hydrogen transportation could help the transition to cleaner energy. Hydrogen has immense potential for low-emission energy production. Since the proposed nuclear power restrictions involve switching to a source like hydrogen, the transportation breakthrough could be a viable option for nuclear power plants in the United States.

GAS AND OIL ARE STILL VITAL TO ENERGY PRODUCTION

As the world makes efforts to transition to green energy, fossil fuel Industries still have a principal role to play. Though oil and coal companies often receive criticism amidst climate change parties, they still make up the majority of America’s energy production. Without fossil fuels’ contribution to the energy sector, the power grid would see a catastrophic decline. Energy industries like coal, natural gas, and oil are vital to sustaining America’s energy needs.

EVEN BIDEN ADMITS, “WE’LL NEED OIL AND GAS FOR A WHILE”

It’s no secret that President Biden has been one of the most determined supporters of green energy throughout his presidency. President Biden has made considerable moves to transition to clean energy sources by making renewable energy a significant platform in his election campaign. His recent crackdown on coal production and implementation of nuclear power restrictions is par for the course of his presidency.

Despite his criticism, the president himself admits that America will need oil and gas for a while. The transition to green energy for our nation cannot happen overnight. Oil and gas refineries will still be necessary for the foreseeable future to help supply America’s power grid. The president’s comments come after mounting tensions between oil executives and the green energy movement.

While the comments made in the presidential address have alleviated some concerns, it has not put them entirely to rest. Several executives are still concerned that oil refineries may be facing a short lifespan based on the previous actions of the current administration.

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, roughly 60% of energy comes from fossil fuels, like natural gas, petroleum, and coal. With the majority of energy being created from fossil fuels, the transition to green energy will take more work and time. In order to make a smooth transition to green power, the world will undoubtedly need fossil fuels throughout the process.

STAY UPDATED WITH SHALE

We closely watch the world of energy to deliver the facts to our readers. We cover the topics and current events that savvy energy investors need to stay on top of the industry. We drill deep to bring our readers the truth about the world of energy. Our past issues have the inside scoop on the energy sector. Meanwhile, our award-winning podcast provides up-to-date and accurate events happening right now. Subscribe to Shale Magazine to stay on top of global energy events and happenings. We are the energy sector’s trusted resource for accurate energy updates.

About the author: Tyler Reed began his career in the world of finance managing a portfolio of municipal bonds at the Bank of New York Mellon. Four years later, he led the Marketing and Business Development team at a high-profile civil engineering firm. He had a focus on energy development in federal, state, and local pursuits. He picked up an Executive MBA from the University of Florida along the way. Following an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded a content writing agency. There, they service marketing agencies, PR firms, and enterprise accounts on a global scale. A sought-after television personality and featured writer in too many leading publications to list, his penchant for research delivers crisp and intelligent prose his audience continually craves.

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, roughly 60% of energy comes from fossil fuels, like natural gas, petroleum, and coal. With the majority of energy being created from fossil fuels, the transition to green energy will take more work and time.

Revolutionizing Pipeline Safety:

ADVANCE INSPECTION AND MONITORING TECHNIQUES TO PAVE WAY FOR SAFER ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

By: Jyoti Singh and Shubhendu Tripathi

In the pursuit of enhancing safety measures and ensuring the integrity of energy infrastructure, the realm of pipeline inspection and monitoring has witnessed a ground-breaking revolution. With advanced techniques and technologies at their disposal, experts have pioneered a new era of safeguarding pipelines, significantly reducing the risk of potential hazards. Pipeline inspection and monitoring have emerged as paramount practices in the energy sector. Implementing cutting-edge methodologies, such as robotic inspection tools and intelligent monitoring systems, has enabled the thorough assessment of pipeline conditions.

By utilizing these technologies, operators can identify and address issues proactively, preventing leaks, ruptures, or other potential debacles. This paradigm shift has instilled confidence in stakeholders as pipeline safety becomes a top priority. Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms empowered operators to analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and predict potential failures. This proactive approach saves valuable time, enhances operational efficiency, and reduces maintenance costs. Besides, remote monitoring systems emerged as a gamechanger in the pipeline industry. Real-time data acquisition and continuous monitoring enable operators to promptly detect anomalies, changes in pressure, or temperature variations.

By closely monitoring pipeline conditions, operators can swiftly respond to emergencies, minimizing the environmental impact and ensuring nearby communities’ safety. Moreover, advanced inspection and monitoring techniques have revolutionized pipeline safety. These technologies have ushered in a new era of enhanced infrastructure integrity and public protection, with their ability to identify issues and swiftly respond to emergencies. Embracing these innovative practices, the energy sector demonstrates its commitment to safety and reinforces its position as a responsible steward of critical resources.

MAGNETIC FLUX LEAKAGE AND ULTRASONIC TECHNOLOGY DOMINATE OTHER PIPELINE INSPECTION AND MONITORING TECHNOLOGY

Different technologies are used to inspect and monitor pipelines: Ultrasonic, PIGs, Magnetic Flux Leakage, Smart Ball, Fiber Optic Technology, and Others. The other segments consist of Beta-foil Technology and Leo Technology.

Magnetic flux inspection services offer a non-destructive testing technique for detecting pipeline corrosion, surface pitting, cracks, and weld defects. This method provides valuable information about the pipe wall’s condition by scanning its circumference and length. By using magnetic flux leakage technology, it is possible to identify the remaining wall thickness, depth, and the precise

location of metal loss caused by deterioration mechanisms—particularly in steel/ferrous pipes.

Ultrasonic leak detection is a superior technology for pipeline inspection and monitoring; it accurately identifies leaks by analyzing pipeline variations and capturing emitted noise. Its exceptional sensitivity enables early detection of even the smallest leaks in oil and gas pipelines, preventing costly damages and environmental risks.

Using sensor devices placed outside the pipe, the non-intrusive method minimizes disruption and damage. With versatility across pipeline materials and conditions, ultrasonic technology ensures high accuracy in leak detection. Real-time data analysis allows operators to respond swiftly to leaks, ensuring uninterrupted pipeline operation. Overall, ultrasonic leak detection technology offers precise, non-intrusive,

and proactive capabilities, safeguarding the integrity and safety of pipelines while mitigating risks.

REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IS EVOLVING

The regulatory framework surrounding pipeline inspection and monitoring has evolved significantly to adapt to changing industry needs and enhance safety standards. Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are placing greater emphasis on pipeline integrity and the prevention of incidents. This includes

developing and implementing more stringent regulations, bars, and guidelines governing pipeline inspection and monitoring practices. Additionally, there is an increasing focus on risk-based approaches, incorporating advanced technologies and data-driven methodologies to assess and manage pipeline integrity. The evolving regulatory framework aims to foster a proactive and systematic approach to pipeline safety, ensuring continuous improvement and reducing the potential for pipeline failures and environmental impacts.

depend on a few factors, including technological advancements, government support, and market demand.

Any technological breakthrough in this market will likely lead to a significantly higher growth rate than projected. The rising expenditure of most oil and gas companies for pipeline infrastructure, network monitoring, and an increase in oil and gas leakage accidents will likely drive the pipeline inspection and monitoring market. Likewise, increasing oil and gas demand in developing countries and the augmented demand for pipeline monitoring due to improved pipeline infrastructure offer excellent opportunities to this market.

Siemens AG (US), Honeywell International Inc. (US), Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. (China), BAE Systems (UK), and TransCanada PipeLines Limited (Canada) are some of the key players in the pipeline inspection and monitoring market. These companies account for significant shares due to their extensive product portfolio, wide geographical presence, and solid customer base. These market players are ranked according to their revenues, product offerings, customer bases, and geographical presence.

PIPELINE INSPECTION AND MONITORING POTENTIAL IS GEOGRAPHY AND LOCATION SPECIFIC

MARKET OUTLOOK

The global pipeline inspection and monitoring market is projected to grow from an estimated USD 1,622 million in 2023 to USD 1,889 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 2.2%. Owing to the increasing demand from enduser industries, the global pipeline inspection and monitoring market is expected to have significant potential for future growth. The market growth is positive, but it is important to note that this industry is still emerging with substantial challenges. Still, success will

Pipeline inspection and monitoring techniques vary across regions like North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Africa. In North America, where extensive pipeline networks exist, regulatory frameworks emphasize integrity management programs. Asia Pacific faces challenges from huge distances, diverse terrain, and rapid industrialization. Europe focuses on stringent safety regulations and the use of advanced technologies. South America grapples with environmental concerns, while the Middle East and Africa tackle desert conditions and security considerations. Tailoring inspection strategies to these regional nuances is essential for effective pipeline maintenance and safety.

BY LOCATION

Pipeline inspection and monitoring techniques consider location-specific details to ensure adequate maintenance and safety. For instance, coastal areas are prone to corrosive saltwater exposure; special attention is given to corrosion prevention measures. In regions with seismic activity, advanced inspection methods are employed to assess pipeline integrity and withstand potential earthquakes.

By closely monitoring pipeline conditions, operators can swiftly respond to emergencies, minimizing the environmental impact and ensuring nearby communities’ safety.

Areas with extreme temperatures, such as arctic regions or desert environments, require specialized monitoring to prevent thermal stress or permafrost-related issues. Urban locations demand meticulous planning to minimize disruptions to existing infrastructure during inspections. Considering these, location-specific factors allow for tailored approaches that address the unique challenges and ensure the reliability and longevity of pipeline systems.

BY REGION

North America accounted for the largest share, followed by APAC (Asia Pacific), Europe, and MEA (Middle East and Africa) of the pipeline inspection and monitoring market from 2022 to 2030. However, the pipeline inspection and monitoring market in APAC and MEA is poised for substantial growth as companies in these regions adopt new technology solutions to enhance the security and robustness of their pipeline infrastructure operations. This heightened focus on monitoring critical infrastructures, including pipeline networks, is driven by the need for secure and efficient operations in various industries.

The increasing security breaches targeting largescale pipeline infrastructure are a notable trend shaping the market. This leads to rising demand for advanced security and monitoring solutions to safeguard pipelines from vulnerabilities.

KEY BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES NEED ADDRESSING TO PAVE THE WAY FOR SAFER ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

The pipeline inspection and monitoring market faces various barriers and challenges hindering its growth and effectiveness. One major challenge is the vast network of existing pipelines, making inspecting and monitoring them comprehensively difficult. Additionally, aging infrastructure, remote locations, and harsh environmental conditions hinder accessing and assessing pipelines.

Furthermore, the high cost of advanced inspection technologies and the need for more skilled personnel in operating and maintaining them add to the challenges. To overcome these barriers, collaboration between stakeholders is crucial. Governments, pipeline operators, and technology providers need to work together to develop efficient inspection and monitoring strategies. Investment in research and development can lead to cost-effective solutions and innovations tailored to address specific challenges.

Training programs and partnerships can help bridge the skills gap by educating and empowering personnel to utilize advanced technologies. Embracing digitalization and remote monitoring techniques can improve accessibility and reduce the need for physical inspections in remote areas. By proactively addressing these barriers and fostering collaboration, the pipeline inspection and monitoring market can thrive, ensuring safer and more reliable energy infrastructure.

About the author: Jyoti Singh is an experienced Research Analyst at MarketsandMarkets, with an experience of 1.5 years. Her experience pivot in conducting research projects for prominent clients related to Renewable Energies and Oil and Gas sector, where she has worked on various projects like, Wave Energy Converter Market, Biorefinery Market, Biomass Power Generation Market, Perforating Gun Market, Offshore Support Vessel Market and many more.

Jyoti holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Pune University and a postgraduate degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), she possesses a strong academic background. With her strong analytical skills and industry expertise, Jyoti makes significant contributions to the research efforts at MarketsandMarkets. Her ability to gather and analyze data, identify trends, and provide valuable insights proves instrumental in assisting clients in making well-informed business decisions.

About the author: Shubhendu Tripathi is a dedicated Research Analyst at MarketandMarkets with a passion for the Energy and Power domain. With an impressive background and experience of approximately 3 years, Shubhendu has become well-versed in various aspects of this industry. His expertise lies in the oil and gas sector, where he has gained valuable insights and knowledge and is particularly interested in the emerging field of the Hydrogen economy and Clean Energy, keeping a close eye on the latest developments and advancements in these areas.

Shubhendu’s academic journey includes achieving a MTech degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES). His educational background has provided him with a solid foundation in understanding the intricacies of the energy sector, and he continually applies this knowledge to his research work. With his strong analytical skills and industry expertise, he contributes significantly to MarketandMarkets’ research efforts. His ability to gather and analyze data, identify trends, and provide valuable insights has proven instrumental in assisting clients in making informed business decisions.

Should the U.S. Be Worried About Blackouts This Summer?

By: Felicity Bradstock

Following the annual occurrence of extreme weather events in some states in recent years, many Americans are rightly afraid of power cuts over the unprecedented heat we’re experiencing during the summer months. Following years of neglect, the aging U.S. energy infrastructure has proven incapable of withstanding the effects of some of the extreme weather events we are seeing more frequently. The grid failed in the face of the Texan winter storm of 2021 and has repeatedly faltered in the intense heat of Californian summers. So, what can we expect to happen this year—and beyond?

Get Ready for Summer Shortages

Energy experts believe that consumers are right to be concerned about potential blackouts in the summer months and should be prepared. Several parts of the U.S., as well as some areas in Canada, could experience energy deficits this summer, affecting a population of around 165 million people. An outlook published in May by the North American Electric Reliability Corp (NERC), an organization that sets reliability standards for North American electric grids, stated that the U.S. West, Midwest, Texas, Southeast, and New England, along with Ontario in Canada are at an elevated risk of experiencing “insufficient

operating reserves in above-normal conditions”. The region could experience a shortfall in its energy supply if temperatures rise as high as has been seen in recent years. Power delivery relies on regional energy transfers to meet demand at peak hours or when solar output is low. And if wind energy is lower than expected, this could add to the shortages. The NERC outlook stated: “Wildfire risks to the transmission network, which often accompany these wide-area heat events, can limit electricity transfers and result in localized load shedding.”

New Renewable Power May Not be Enough

Even though Texas added 4GW of new solar power to its grid over the last year, this power is only enough to ensure the state’s power in typical summer weather conditions. If Texas experiences above-average temperatures and low winds it could lead to shortages. A shift in reliance away from coal to renewable energy sources could affect the stable provision of power in other states if temperatures rise higher than normal, as has been a common occurrence in recent years.

NERC published the outlook to warn energy providers and the government about the potential risks of extreme weather events with the current state of U.S. energy infrastructure. The group has been more forthright with its warnings in recent years following previous failures, to ensure they do not happen again. For example, in 2020, California experienced wide-scale blackouts due to heat waves and wildfires. Similarly, Texas was left without power during a severe winter storm just half a year later.

U.S. Infrastructure Challenges

NERC suggested that the Biden Administration must consider the impact its climate policies could have on the U.S. electric grid. While a reduction in fossil fuel use, due to the closure of coal plants, a shortage of oil and gas, and the decarbonization of several industries, is helping the U.S. to accelerate its green transition, much of its energy infrastructure is poorly prepared for an influx of renewable energy.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), developers plan to add 54.5GW of new utilityscale electric-generating capacity to the U.S. power grid in 2023. But this power can only be generated when the sun is shining, demonstrating the need for a significant

increase in the U.S. battery storage capacity, as well as updating the energy infrastructure across the country to manage the varying supplies of power from green energy projects.

One of the issues that has been seen alongside the rise in renewable energy operations is a problem with solar plant inverters. These convert DC to AC power, and solar plants in California and Texas have experienced outages when there is a problem on another part of the grid due to failures in this technology. Faulty solar inverters can amplify minor grid problems, leading to widespread power cuts. In December, NERC said that fixing the glitches would require a software update that was still in the study phase.

And while California is far better prepared for the hot summer this year, thanks, in part, to more abundant hydropower from winter storms, a long heatwave could lead the state to have to import more energy from other states. And this could be an issue if the Environmental Protection Agency restricts energy generation from coal plants this summer.

The Need to Prepare

With the Biden Administration’s climate policies, the U.S. is well into a green transition. The country is installing new renewable energy at a rapid rate and is looking to develop its battery storage capacity and make huge improvements to its energy infrastructure – under the $1 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. However, in the short term, when aging U.S. energy infrastructure is coupled with extreme weather events, a reduction in fossil fuel production and use, and a rise in renewable energy projects with an unstable rate of power delivery, this could lead to severe shortages across several states in the summer months, an issue to which the Biden Administration must rapidly respond.

Several parts of the U.S., as well as some areas in Canada, could experience energy deficits this summer, affecting a population of around 165 million people.

The Big Cybersecurity Concern in U.S. Energy

By: Felicity Bradstock

The future of U.S. energy security will be centered around a broad and varied supply of energy sources. And as the energy industry undergoes rapid modernization, with many companies adopting a wide range of digital technologies, from automated robotic platform equipment to AI and machine learning technologies, this opens the sector up to a new wave of cyber threats. The acceleration of the green transition means that thousands of new renewable energy projects are being developed across the country from a plethora of energy companies and start-ups.

These projects vary in size, management, and style, meaning that each one can face different security threats. Further, America’s aging grid system is not well-prepared to combat the skills and expertise of advanced hackers. So, just what should the government and private sector do to enhance U.S. energy cybersecurity?

The Good and the Bad of Digitalization

The International Energy Agency (IEA) views the adoption of digital technologies as vital to the future of the energy industry. When used to deliver electricity, they can help enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and decrease outage times. The digitalization of energy operations can also help accelerate the green transition. However, as devices become more interconnected, the threat of a cyberattack must be taken more seriously.

Enhanced automation exposes companies to the threat of a cyberattack, which could interfere with the function of a wide range of equipment, affecting both energy companies and consumers. As well as causing power outages, the knock-on effect of cyberattacks on businesses could be severe, with the potential for countries to lose millions or billions of dollars due to business disruption, equipment damage, and revenue loss.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Cyberattacks Global Risk Report 2020, cyberattacks were among the top ten global risks in terms of likelihood and impact. The threat is especially high due to the unpredictability of attacks. The risk of cyberattacks is difficult to measure and track, mainly due to the lack of available data on

cybersecurity events. Incidents often go unreported or undetected. Further, the lack of a cohesive international definition of what constitutes a cyberattack means that these events are often overlooked.

Recent Incidents or “Cyberattacks”

Recent studies have shown that cyberattacks have been on the rise in recent years. There were around 38% more cases of cyberattacks in 2022 compared to 2021. And the adoption of cloudbased solutions and other digital technologies has made companies more vulnerable to these types of incidents, demonstrating the need for better cybersecurity.

One famous cyberattack was that of the Colonial Pipeline in 2021. Colonial transports around 2.5 million bpd of fuel and ac-

counts for around 45% of the East Coast’s supply. The fuel pipeline is the largest in the U.S. and the ransomware attack led to a loss of $.4.4 million, in the form of a ransom payment to the criminal gang. The attack was aimed at tarnishing the company’s image. The disruption led to gasoline shortages, the shutting down of services, panic buying among consumers, and increased gas prices.

Ethical Hacking

To avoid the threat of cyberattacks many energy companies, as well as the Federal government, are paying ethical hackers to assess the weaknesses in their systems. A 2022 Hacker-Powered Security Report stated that ethical hackers found more than 65,000 vulnerabilities in 2022, around 21% more than those in 2021. While data loss is the biggest concern, there is also a threat to the safe and steady running of energy and industry operations.

The Need to Prioritize

As companies modernize operations through digitalization, many are failing to introduce the appropriate cybersecurity measures required to mitigate the risk of an attack. This can be due to a lack of understanding of the threat or an unwillingness to invest in extra security measures. A 2022 GlobalData report explained, “The digitalization wave in the oil and gas industry is creating new access points in industrial networks for hackers to exploit,” and “As technology develops,

According to the World Economic Forum’s Cyberattacks

Global Risk Report 2020, cyberattacks were among the top ten global risks in terms of likelihood and impact.

from mobile to the cloud to IoT [internet of things], the level of complexity needed for organizations to maintain a cyber-aware stance also increases.”

However, at present, cybersecurity is not viewed as a priority by many state governments and private companies. Francesca Gregory, an analyst at GlobalData, stated “Oil and gas companies are realizing the benefits of integrating technologies into workflows, with the pandemic undoubtedly playing an instrumental role in boosting the momentum of the industry’s digitalization… However, the wider

industry is largely underprepared to handle its risks.”

In a 2022 survey, 38% of the respondents from the power transmission and supply and the oil and gas sectors felt confident that they were prepared to respond to a potential cyberattack, while just 20% of the respondents in the renewable energy industry felt the same. This suggests that many companies across the energy industry are, on average, highly unprepared for an attack on their network.

A Possible Shift

This is slowly changing, with

spending on cybersecurity expected to reach $10 billion by 2025. But several companies are only just beginning to digitize operations and are still learning about the potential threats, which limits their ability to act to mitigate these threats. The government could support U.S. companies by developing federal

guidelines on the implementation of cybersecurity measures in the energy industry. In addition, better coordination between federal agencies and the private sector could further enhance the security of critical infrastructure.

About the author: Felicity Bradstock is a freelance writer specializing in Energy and Industry. She has a Master’s in International Development from the University of Birmingham, UK, and is now based in Mexico City.

Why We Need Carbon Intensity vs Colors to Measure Hydrogen Emissions

By: Cam Hosie, CEO of 8 Rivers

Pink, yellow, green, blue, turquoise, gold: so numerous are the “hydrogen colors” that energy newcomers would be excused for thinking hydrogen a crystal prism, not a colorless gas. And frankly even some old hands seem to have talked themselves into the colors being real.

Anyone who has come quickly up to speed on the first element knows that the “rainbow” can be a useful tool for keeping production methods straight: pink is nuclear, green is renewably-powered electrolysis, etc. But energy transition advocates who insist on arbitration by rainbow—maintaining that only “green” hydrogen deserves a place in our energy futures—risk missing maximum emissions reductions by focusing too narrowly on particular technologies. Instead, the energy industry should evaluate hydrogen projects by carbon intensity alone.

The Energy Transition Requires Hydrogen Decarbonization…

To combat climate change, we must decarbonize as quickly as possible, and hydrogen-enabled decarbonization is essential to any realistic energy transition plan. First, we must transform hydrogen from an emitter to a decarbonizer. Currently, hydrogen production contributes around 2% of global emissions; ammonia, which can be made from hydrogen, contributes the same. That’s because 95% of hydrogen is made through steam methane reforming without carbon capture, a process which releases some 830 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year—equivalent to the CO₂ emissions of the UK and Indonesia combined. Thankfully, the percentage of hydrogen produced in this way is rapidly shrinking, with current clean hydrogen production and future clean hydrogen projections both rapidly rising. As this supply expands, we fully

decarbonize hydrogen supply. Then, we can use hydrogen (and ammonia) to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries.

Using hydrogen to decarbonize aviation, shipping, heavy-duty transport, and cement and steel production, and other industries that cannot be feasibly electrified expands the substance’s emission reduction potential from its current ~4% share of global emissions to something an order of magnitude more impactful. Moreover, these applications can expand energy access globally, driving human development. To achieve this maximum impact, however, we must first minimize the emissions associated with the hydrogen itself.

…Which Requires Scale, Speed, and Affordability

For clean hydrogen to become decarbonization’s industrial workhorse, it must scale at the volume industry demands and at a cost the industry can afford. If we don’t scale volume quickly enough, hydrogen’s potential is compromised for lack of supply. If we don’t scale affordably enough, we struggle to decarbonize because would-be off-takers cannot make the numbers work.

Renewable-powered electrolyzed hydrogen can, and probably will, play a large role. But to achieve the volume and price point necessary to scale at sufficient speed, then low-carbonintensity hydrogen must be fair game regardless of energy source.

To Maximize Emissions Reductions, Judge Carbon Intensity, Not Color

Focusing on ‘color’ over deliverability, economics or scalability imposes a deadweight loss on society. Furthermore, pouring money into ‘colors’ that may end up a black hole undermines the overall decarbonization effort. Consequently, hydrogen producers, off-takers, and policymakers should base their produc-

tion, procurement, and rulemaking decisions on lifetime carbon intensity. By analyzing embodied carbon and emissions from sourcing, production, transportation, and storage, carbon intensity enables a focus on what really matters: emissions reductions.

The Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), a clean energy think tank, agrees. “A simple color coding is insufficient to clarify the emissions of each production path,” it reports. “Depending on differences in the supply chain and technology performance, two supplies of hydrogen with the same ‘color’ can have widely different carbon footprints.” Importantly, that divergence goes for green hydrogen, too. That’s why we should select hydrogen production methods solely via a quantitative carbon intensity assessment based on Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions alone.

For Big-Picture Success, Center Big-Picture Realism

Targeting outcomes is essential to optimize the “scale, speed, affordability” triad. And in targeting outcomes, we need to be realists, too. Realism involves meeting the world where it is. It also involves ambition, with economics at the forefront. Rather than supporting legacy technology already near the bottom of its cost curve, we must invest in expandable methods with a pathway to subsidy-free economic viability. Only then can we achieve solutions that the developed world can implement without disruption and that the developing world can implement without compromising the growth and energy access they deserve. And to meet those goals, we’ll need technologies that can leverage multiple primary energy sources and be carbon-zero using the prevailing fuels in the world today.

After all, solutions which have the best chance of scaling are the solutions that emitters will implement of their own volition in

the long term, and that’s simply a question of dollars and cents. To reach that point with hydrogen, we need to shift focus from colors’ kaleidoscope distraction to focus wholly and simply on carbon intensity.

The Pivot Points of Carbon Intensity

Hydrogen’s emissions fall within five key categories: feedstock, production, transportation, storage, and usage. And there is as much or more variation within each hydrogen “color” as between them.

Hydrogen produced by electrolysis directly powered by a new renewables array is the gold standard of “clean”. But connect that same electrolysis plant to Texas’s grid, and carbon intensity soars to over 20 kilograms of carbon dioxide per kilogram, nearly double that of natural gas-derived hydrogen without carbon capture and storage (CCS). Even worse is if new “green” electrolyzers cannibalize existing renewable sources, causing grid demand to return to uncaptured fossil generation that then increases net emissions.

Meanwhile, hydrogen produced by steam

methane reforming combined with carbon capture (commonly known as “blue” hydrogen) also varies. At the feedstock level, U.S. pipelines lose an average of 1.2% of their natural gas to methane leakage. (Rates are highermuch, much higher - in many other countries.) At the production level, many carbon capture technologies capture less than 60% of steam methane reforming emissions at scale.

Conversely, responsibly sourced “blue” hydrogen with less than 0.2% methane leakage and 95% or better carbon capture could be just as clean as that from best-in-class electrolysis. And we have good news: the technology exists to meet or exceed both those thresholds. We can achieve less than 0.2% methane leakage and up to 99.9% carbon emissions capture, with improved economics and at tremendous scale, just with technology available today.

Other pivot points of carbon intensity matter not only within colors but across them. We can address emissions from hydrogen leakage, a challenge during both transmission and storage, by converting it to more-transportable

To combat climate change, we must decarbonize as quickly as possible, and hydrogen-enabled decarbonization is essential to any realistic energy transition plan.

ammonia. We can also address leakage by concentrating hydrogen infrastructure in hubs where proximity of supply and demand requires only short-distance transportation and short-duration storage. And saving hydrogen deployment for use cases that cannot be electrified directly abates the opportunity cost of making hydrogen with renewable electricity that could do more good decarbonizing the grid itself.

High Standards, High Urgency

We shouldn’t compromise our standards, but we shouldn’t compromise our opportunities, either. To decarbonize at the scale and the pace needed to combat climate change, we need all the help that we can get, which is why hydrogen that meets strict low-emissions standards must be fair game, no matter its production method. And conversely, hydrogen whose life cycle assessment falls short of emissions standards should not be considered “clean” simply because it stemmed from a madeup color.

With the long average lifetime of a hydrogen plant, the infrastructure we build between now and 2030 will be with us for most of our lifetimes. To avoid stranded assets, we must prioritize carbon intensity in our design choices, investing in sites that pair fossil-based reforming with carbon capture only if the latter can capture more than 95% of carbon emissions from the reforming process. To minimize emissions further, we must also combat leakage: that means both sealing upstream methane leaks and ensuring virtually no leakage of hydrogen or ammonia throughout the value chain. Additionally, we can avert carbon emissions elsewhere on the grid by producing hydrogen by electrolysis only when the electricity source is clean, additional, deliverable, and hourly matched.

Intense on Intensity

To minimize hydrogen’s emissions and maximize its decarbonization potential, carbon intensity must be top of mind. Quantitatively assessing decision branches at each step of the hydrogen lifecycle will provide producers, off-takers, and policymakers with the information they need to choose a production process without bias. In short: down with the colors! That way we can be down with carbon intensity, too.

Biden Proposes Crackdown on Power Plant Emissions

By: Tyler Reed

Earlier this month, the Biden administration proposed an extensive decrease in greenhouse gas emissions from U.S. power plants. This plan would require power plants to install billions of dollars worth of new equipment to dramatically curb the emission of CO2 into the atmosphere. Power plants would be required to implement the new technology or face total shutdowns.

This proposed plan by Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a continuation of the ongoing transition to green and renewable energy. This plan represents one of the most significant moves by the administration in its climate change efforts. However, the proposed plan has been met with polarizing views.

The Costly Proposal

The proposal by the EPA would require coal and gas-fired power plants to nearly eliminate carbon dioxide emissions in as little as a decade. The stringent requirements placed on power plants to decrease CO2 emissions would put in place carbon-catching equipment to capture roughly 90% of carbon dioxide from the power plant’s smoke stack. Installing this equipment is a multi-billion dollar requirement that could force the shutdown of many American power plants.

The EPA estimates that the power industry will need over $10 billion to adhere to the proposed regulations. American power plants also have the alternative option of switching to lower-emission hydrogen fuel to create electricity. However, this endeavor would be comparable in cost to the new equipment.

This proposal by the EPA has been met with loud opposition from Republicans across the nation. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell says, “Complying with Washington bureaucrats’ latest wishes requires technology that producers cannot access, costs that they cannot swallow, and pain that lower-income ratepayers cannot stomach…”

Senate Environment and Public Works Committee ranking member Shelley Moore added, ”The Clean Power Plan 2.0 announced

today is the Biden administration’s most blatant attempt yet to close down power plants and kill American energy jobs…”

While the face of energy is changing, the aggressive proposal by the Biden Administration could be overreaching and overly ambitious. As well, the rapidity with which the EPA’s proposal requires could simply be too much for domestic power plants to adhere to.

Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency

Though the Environmental Protection Agency has been in place since the 1970s, it has grown excessively under the Obama and Biden administrations. During the Obama era, a similar plan was proposed through the EPA. However, the Supreme Court deemed this type of overarching authority unlawful. The Obama administration’s failed proposal was repealed in 2019 under the Trump administration. Now, the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal has been resurrected under the Biden administration.

While the EPA suggests the new regulations could have invaluable environmental impacts, the economic effects could be catastrophic. If the Environmental Protection Agency’s plan goes through, the cost of producing power would most likely increase drastically. In that scenario, this plan would not only affect power plants but the American citizens as well. If it costs more to produce electricity, power bills increase.

The EPA is set to open a 60-day comment period in which power plants and the public can offer their opinions. During this time, the EPA expects blowback from power companies and concerned citizens.

Is Biden’s Proposed Regulation an Attack on Affordable Energy?

The proposed bill would most likely increase the cost of energy production across the board. Currently, power plants utilize a mix of resources to provide the energy and electricity

American citizens need. By using fossil fuels, like cold and oil, power companies are able to provide efficient electricity with relatively low production costs. Because the coal and oil industries are able to produce massive amounts of resources at lower prices, consumers reap the benefits of cost-effective production.

If the EPA’s plan is accepted, it would vastly change the face of power production in the United States. Though renewable energy technology is advancing and is an excellent possibility for the future, it is currently much more costly than fossil fuels. Until renewable energy technology becomes more affordable, America’s reliance on fossil fuels is an economic necessity. Unfortunately, the production cost of electricity could skyrocket if Biden’s proposal is successful.

Who Really Pays for “Clean Energy”?

If power plants are forced to install billions of dollars worth of equipment or move to less economical fuel sources, like hydrogen, American taxpayers will likely pay the price. If power production costs are dramatically increased for power plants, the extra expense will trickle down to the American citizens.

While the initial expense could be catastrophic on its own for power plants, the additional operational costs would continue to rise. The advancing technology proposed by the EPA would require sufficient maintenance, advanced updates, and highly specialized installation. The operational expertise necessary to implement such technology would be a costly endeavor for America’s power plans.

The alternative proposed option for power plants is to switch to hydrogen fuel, which has a lower CO2 emission. However, the transportation and handling of hydrogen fuel is a costly business. This alternative option could also drive up the cost of electricity across the nation. If the cost of production for electricity goes up for power plants, the consumers could end up picking up the expensive tab.

Why We Need Power Plant Operations

Power plants across the nation generate electricity that Americans use every day to power their computers, lights, climate control systems, etc. Electricity is a vital component in every sector of the American economy. We rely on electricity to heat our homes, power our phones, and sustain medical equipment; there are countless reasons why power grids are listed as critical infrastructure.

The proposed plan by the Biden administration’s EPA would cause power plants to install billions of dollars worth of equipment or face shutdowns. The limits proposed by the EPA are complicated and costly for power plants.

Power plants would be required to utilize and install carbon dioxide-catching technologies to capture CO2 emissions before they reach the atmosphere. However, this equipment is costly and may take many years to fully deploy.

Another route power plants could take is making the switch to lower-emission hydrogen fuel. A move to hydrogen fuel would mean less dependence on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. However, hydrogen fuel and hydrogen fuel technology are costly and can come with certain risks. Hydrogen can be considered volatile fuel. Without proper equipment and adequate safety measures, switching to hydrogen fuel could cause difficulties for power plants.

If America’s power plants are unable to meet the proposed regulations, they could face total shutdowns. Environmental groups approve of this course of action, but the ramifications could destabilize America’s power grid. With the potential power problem states like California and Texas have already seen, a destabilization of the nation’s power grid could be disastrous on a much larger scale. America needs its power plants to run efficiently and continuously to provide for the needs of its citizens.

America’s Dependence on Coal

The proposed plan seems to be a direct attack on the coal industry. While some environmental groups have been praising the proposed EPA regulation, the dependence on coal is vital to the energy sector—and the energy transition. Not only does coal provide thousands of jobs for states like West Virginia or Kentucky, but coal is responsible for a massive portion of the electricity used in the nation.

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, coal produced 828 billion kWh of electricity in 2022. This accounts for roughly 19.5% of the energy generated for the nation by fossil fuels. The current energy produced by fossil fuels in the United States is around 60% of the power grid. Coal production and energy from coal are a massive portion of the energy we need to sustain our power.

Crippling America’s coal industry could result in a catastrophic energy crisis. If the

proposed regulations are carried through, power plants across the nation would have to decrease their dependence on coal as an energy source dramatically. The impact on the power grid could be disastrous on top of the economic ramifications and thousands of jobs destroyed for coal industries.

While the world is transitioning to clean energy, the rapid elimination of America’s dependence on coal is not a viable option. America still relies on coal production, and severely diminishing or eliminating coal production entirely can only be done over a period of time. At best, Biden’s proposal is downright aggressive. At worst, it could destabilize the energy grid and cause disastrous ramifications for the American economy.

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About the author: Tyler Reed began his career in the world of finance managing a portfolio of municipal bonds at the Bank of New York Mellon. Four years later, he led the Marketing and Business Development team at a high-profile civil engineering firm. He had a focus on energy development in federal, state, and local pursuits. He picked up an Executive MBA from the University of Florida along the way. Following an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded a content writing agency. There, they service marketing agencies, PR firms, and enterprise accounts on a global scale. A sought-after television personality and featured writer in too many leading publications to list, his penchant for research delivers crisp and intelligent prose his audience continually craves.

The Intricate Process: How Oil and Gas Companies Acquire Mineral Rights

By: Peter Yordanov

In the bustling world of the oil and gas industry, one subject captures the essence of exploration and production activities - mineral rights. The acquisition of these rights plays a significant role in the industry, acting as the linchpin of successful extraction and processing operations. This article unravels the intricate process that these companies undertake to secure these coveted rights.

WHAT ARE MINERAL RIGHTS

Mineral rights, or more precisely, the right to extract minerals from a specific piece of land, is a kind of property ownership right. Often separated from surface rights, mineral rights enable entities to explore, extract, and sell minerals found beneath the ground surface.

This can include a wide range of substances, from oil and gas to precious metals. Ownership of these rights can lead to potentially lucrative opportunities, especially in regions rich in oil and gas deposits.

THE INITIAL STEPS OF ACQUIRING MINERAL RIGHTS

When oil and gas companies set out to acquire mineral rights, they start with a robust research phase. This initial step involves identifying land that harbors significant mineral potential. The companies often employ the services of landmen, professionals specializing in researching and negotiating land contracts, to assist in this process. This meticulous exploration phase includes several important elements:.

Land and Mineral Survey

This survey evaluates the geological characteristics of the land, determining the likelihood of a successful extraction operation.

Title Search

A comprehensive review of public records helps establish the legal owner of the mineral rights, which can be different from the surface rights owner.

After the initial research, the companies initiate negotiations with the owners to purchase or lease the mineral rights.

NEGOTIATING FOR MINERAL RIGHTS

The process of negotiation forms the backbone of acquiring mineral rights. A company’s objective is to secure these rights at the most

favorable terms. This process can vary significantly depending on the parties involved, but it typically includes:

Drafting A Lease or Purchase Agreement

This formal document outlines the terms of the agreement, such as the duration of the lease, royalty rates, and operational responsibilities.

Setting Royalty Rates

Royalty rates define the owner’s share of the profits from the extracted minerals. These rates can be subject to intense negotiation, given their long-term financial implications.

Once the terms are agreed upon, the deal is sealed with a formal contract.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND CONSIDERATIONS

Acquiring mineral rights doesn’t end with the closing of negotiations. It’s crucial for companies to navigate through regulatory require-

ments and adhere to industry standards. This stage can involve:

Permit Acquisition

Before beginning any exploration or drilling activities, companies must obtain permits from relevant authorities.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Companies are also obliged to conduct assessments of their potential impact on the environment, aligning their operations with environmental conservation efforts.

AFTER ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Once mineral rights are secured, the responsibilities of the oil and gas companies don’t end. Owning or leasing these rights is the beginning of a new phase involving numerous duties and commitments.

Exploration and Extraction

This involves the physical process of drilling for oil or gas, and employing advanced technology to maximize the extraction of these resources.

Royalty Payments

Companies must ensure timely and accurate royalty payments to the owner of the mineral rights as agreed in the contract. Environmental Stewardship

Post-acquisition, the company must manage its operations responsibly, ensuring minimal negative impact on the environment. This includes adhering to regulations related to waste disposal, emissions, and more.

Fulfilling these responsibilities contributes to a positive reputation, potentially influencing future acquisition endeavors.

RISKS AND CHALLENGES IN ACQUIRING MINERAL RIGHTS

Despite the lucrative opportunities presented by mineral rights, acquiring and managing them involves a degree of risk. Oil and gas companies need to navigate these challenges with strategic planning and insightful decision-making. These potential hurdles may include:

Ownership Disputes

Given the intricacies of mineral rights ownership, disputes can arise, resulting in legal complications.

Market Fluctuations:

The value of oil and gas is subject to market fluctuations, which can impact the financial viability of the mineral rights acquisition.

Regulatory Changes:

Changes in environmental and industry regulations can affect operations, impacting the feasibility of extraction and production processes.

By understanding these challenges, companies can better prepare and develop contingency plans to mitigate potential risks.

THE VALUE OF MINERAL RIGHTS IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

In the grand scheme of the oil and gas industry, the value of mineral rights cannot be underestimated. They represent the essential gateway to extraction activities, the heart of this industry. This acquisition process may be complex and challenging, but the potential rewards are significant. Not only does this process create financial opportunities for companies, but it also contributes to the broader energy market and global economy.

In conclusion, the process of acquiring mineral rights is a nuanced and multifaceted journey that involves meticulous research, intense negotiation, regulatory compliance, and careful management. Despite the complexities and challenges involved, the successful acquisition of these rights paves the way for oil and gas companies to thrive and drive energy production forward.

While this article provides a comprehensive overview of the process, individual experiences can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances and regions involved. For a more in-depth understanding of this topic, it’s advisable to delve into more specialized resources and conduct more personalized research.

In a world where the demand for energy resources is continuously increasing, understanding the process of acquiring mineral rights is essential for both industry players and observers. This understanding not only empowers companies to make informed decisions but also contributes to a more transparent and knowledgeable society.

The U.S. Is Cleaning Up Its Shipping Sector

By: Felicity Bradstock

The U.S. has big plans for the decarbonization of its shipping sector in line with the national green transition. When most people think about going green, they may think about shifting from fossil fuel production to renewable alternatives. But many do not consider highly polluting industries, such as manufacturing and transportation. In addition to shifting to electric vehicles, the U.S. government is also looking to make heavy transportation and freight cleaner through electrification, green fuels, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

The U.S. Roadmap for Decarbonizing Shipping

In January 2023, the U.S. Departments of Energy, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the “U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization – A Joint Strategy to Transform Transportation.”

Under its vision, it states “We must eliminate nearly all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the sector by 2050 and implement a holistic strategy to achieve a future mobility system that is clean, safe, secure, accessible, affordable, and equitable, and provides sustainable transportation options for people and goods.” This roadmap addresses some of the ways that the organizations plan to decarbonize the sector over the coming decades in line with a green transition.

In the section discussing maritime vessels, the document states that in the U.S. there are around 12 million privately owned recreational boats and 38,000 commercial vessels, such as tugboats, containerships, and ferries, according to recent surveys. Most recreational boats use gasoline, and bigger vessels use an almost equal share of diesel and residual oil. A few use liquified natural gas (LNG). According to the EPA, around half of U.S. marine vessel carbon emissions come from international shipping, around 30% from domestic shipping and 20% from recreational boats. Many U.S. ports also contribute heavily to the sector’s carbon emissions, often disproportionately negatively affecting the communities and environment of poorer areas surrounding the ports.

Because the largest proportion of carbon emissions comes from international journeys, the decarbonization of the shipping sector will require an intergovernmental approach. In 2021, President Biden pledged to work closely with the International Maritime Organization to achieve this and adopt a new goal of zero emissions in the sector by 2050. However, much more investment is needed to progress research and development in the decarbonization of shipping as the best approach is still unclear.

The U.S. government will likely need to use a variety of approaches to successfully decarbonize the shipping sector as both maritime vessels and ports contribute greenhouse gas emis-

sions due to a variety of different activities. In addition, vessels have a long fleet turnover time, of around 30 years or above, meaning the understanding of the costs, standards, and require-

ments is vital for long-term fiscal planning. While some technologies can already be rolled out to support decarbonization, many new technologies or improvements will be seen in the coming

decades. Further, while some technologies can be fitted into existing vessels to make them cleaner, another approach is to build entirely new green vessels – something that is not yet possible.

Investment

In May, the EPA announced the first step towards the development of programs that

aimed at reducing harmful air and climate pollutants across the country’s ports.

Meanwhile, the Clean HeavyDuty Vehicle Program will invest a further $1 billion in the reduction of vehicle emissions. The program expanded upon the EPA’s existing Ports Initiative, aimed at achieving net-zero emissions from ports by 2050 by transforming the sector’s infrastructure and

vantaged regions of the U.S.

President Biden has previously announced $17 billion in investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law earmarked for the improvement of U.S. ports and waterways. Officials stated of the financing, “This historic investment will also play a role in reducing local pollution and climate emissions by limiting congestion and idling as well as by investing in electrification and other low-carbon technologies through programs, including supporting the future of zeroemission shipping.”

Community and Industry Impact

An analysis from February from the International Council on Clean Transportation showed that if every cruise or cargo ship visiting the ports plugged into the electric grid while docked, rather than idling its engines, it would dramatically improve the environment and community health in the region surrounding the port.

For example, the full electrification at Seattle’s port would drive a 75 percent reduction in emissions of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can enter people’s lungs and bloodstream and elevate their risk for asthma, heart disease and cancer, according to the research. This could help prevent three premature deaths a year in the zone and provide a saving of $27 million in annual public health benefits for Seattle.

However, ship manufacturing companies have highlighted challenges in the electrification and decarbonization of shipping that must be addressed to ensure a successful transition. Many firms are now scared to build new fleets because of potential decarbon

ization rules that may come into place in the future.

That move could lead to added costs for the retrofitting of fleets with the necessary new equipment, or the development of new green fleets, with the potential for huge financial losses. This strongly demonstrates the need for clear, official guidance and regulations in the sector, that address the needs and expectations of shipbuilders and operators as the sector undergoes a decarbonization.

are expected to invest $4 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in U.S. port infrastructure. The Clean Ports Program will invest $3 billion in technologies

incorporating new technologies. The two programs are expected to support the decarbonization of the maritime sector as well as to provide job opportunities in disad-

About the author: Felicity Bradstock is a freelance writer specializing in Energy and Industry. She has a Master’s in International Development from the University of Birmingham, UK, and is now based in Mexico City.

The U.S. government will likely need to use a variety of approaches to successfully decarbonize the shipping sector as both maritime vessels and ports contribute greenhouse gas emissions due to a variety of different activities.

THE CHALLENGES OF NOT HAVING A HUMAN RESOURCES (HR) DEPARTMENT

By: Leslee Hope Haynes

In today’s competitive business environment, firms must carefully assess the structure and resources required to effectively manage their personnel. Human Resource (HR) departments have an important role in all elements of employee management, from recruitment and benefits administration to employee relations and compliance with labor laws. Some organizations, however, may not have a specialized HR department, which might pose considerable issues.

Risk Exposure

Running a business without a human resources department exposes organizations to employment law and regulation violations. Human resources departments are in charge of ensuring that labor laws, such as equal employment opportunity legislation, pay and hour laws, and workplace safety requirements, are followed. Businesses that do not have specialized HR specialists may struggle to keep up with changing legislation, raising the likelihood of legal issues and potential lawsuits.

Decision Making and Employee Well-Being

Furthermore, human resources departments frequently play a strategic role in decisionmaking and employee well-being. They are in charge of building a great work culture, encouraging employee participation, and safeguarding the workforce's well-being. Businesses may lack the essential knowledge to build and sustain a supportive work environment if they do not have an HR department. As a result, employees may feel unsupported, which may lead to decreased morale, higher turnover rates, and lower productivity.

When there is no HR department, one of the primary challenges that employees encounter is the lack of a dedicated resource to handle their concerns and issues. Human resource experts are trained to deal with delicate issues such as workplace harassment, bullying, and violence. They provide a safe environment for employees to report events, advise management on appropriate actions, and conduct investigations as needed.

Benefits Management

Furthermore, employees rely on HR for information and assistance with benefits enrollment and management. HR experts may help employees through complex processes like health insurance enrollment and keep them up to date on legislative changes that influence their benefits. Employees without this assistance may have difficulty navigating benefit systems and may be less aware of their rights and accessible resources.

Company Culture

In addition, HR departments are critical in building and promoting a company’s culture. They are in charge of driving employee engagement efforts, facilitating communication between management and employees and organizing events that increase employee happiness. Businesses may struggle to sustain a strong and unified company culture in the absence of an HR department, leading to disengagement and diminished employee loyalty.

HR Department Alternatives

While having a dedicated HR department is desirable, organizations that do not have one can still handle some of their difficulties. Here are a few different options:

1. HR Functions Can Be Outsourced: Companies can work with external HR consultants or firms to handle certain HR duties such as payroll administration, benefits management, and legal compliance. This enables organizations to gain access to HR expertise and support without the need for a full-fledged in-house HR department.

2. Designate an HR Representative: Even if a dedicated HR department is not available, firms can appoint an employee to fulfill HR obligations in addition to their core function. This authorized HR person can serve as an employee point of contact, answer basic HR questions, and liaise with external resources as needed.

3. Invest in Training and Development: Providing HR-related training to managers and supervisors might help reduce some issues. Giving employees the knowledge and skills they need to undertake fundamental HR responsibilities like conflict resolution and performance management can enhance employee relations and decrease potential hazards.

While one can manage a firm without a human resources department, it presents substantial obstacles for organizations. The lack of an HR department raises the risk of noncompliance with labor regulations, impedes employee support networks, and impairs the creation of a positive work culture.

To address these issues, organizations can consider outsourcing HR activities, appointing an HR representative, or investing in HR training for management. Businesses can better support their employees and maintain compliance with employment standards by addressing their HR needs.

UniqueHR: The Leading Provider of HR Services

When it comes to HR services in Houston, UniqueHR stands out as a reliable Professional Employer Organization (PEO) certified by the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO). Their benefits administration expertise assures that major medical group health insurance, dental care, vision care, health savings accounts, life insurance, and disability coverage are available. UniqueHR helps businesses navigate healthcare legislation and reduce compliance risks. UniqueHR’s retirement management services assist organizations in designing and implementing cost-effective 401(k) plans for the future financial security of their employees.

UniqueHR is a leading provider of human resource services in Houston, Texas, providing a complete range of HR solutions suited to the needs of Houston-area businesses and employees. On-site and online HR training programs, custom employee handbooks and procedures, verifications with various government agencies, background checks, employee status adjustments, and pre-employment tests are among their services.

UniqueHR also specializes in PEO (Professional Employer Organization) services, which include payroll, benefits administration, tax administration, and workers' compensation for small and medium-sized firms.

If you or anyone you are interested in UniqueHR’s services, visit their website at uniquehr.com.

About the author: Leslee Hope Haynes is a multifaceted professional who specializes in marketing, branding, cinematography, production, and editing. Her career spans various industries, including weddings, education, oil, gas, energy, and marketing. Leslee’s commitment to her craft and diverse skill set make her an invaluable asset in the media and creative fields.

With many talents, Leslee’s versatility plays a vital role in Energy Network Media Group. Among her duties as the administrative manager for EN Media Group, Leslee also provides multimedia design. Leslee designs our event and social media graphics, films, and edits videos for Shale Magazine and In The Oil Patch Radio. Leslee is also our email and social media marketer. In addition to marketing and multimedia design, Leslee maintains our website and writes and edits articles for SHALE Magazine.

Texas Tech Study Shows the Enormous Economic Impact of Texas Pipelines

By: Jeannine Wheeler

The Texas midstream industry is a powerhouse that contributes to the state’s economic output, jobs and government revenues, according to a new study conducted by the Center for Energy Commerce at Texas Tech University and commissioned by the Texas Pipeline Association (TPA).

The 2022 Analysis of the Current and Future Economic Impact of the Texas Oil and Gas Pipeline Industry study shows that through ongoing operations and construction in 2022 alone, the Texas oil and gas pipeline industry provided:

• More than $60.5 billion in economic output;

• More than $34 billion in additional gross state product;

• Nearly $3.6 billion in state and local government revenues;

• More than 234,000 jobs; and

• An estimated $12,250 in property tax revenues generated per mile of a pipeline for a typical Texas county.

The strength of the midstream industry

is expected

to continue. According to the study, over the next 40 years the pipeline industry is conservatively expected to generate cumulative economic impacts of:

• $1.86 trillion in economic output;

• $1.05 trillion in additional gross state product;

• $110.34 billion in state and local government revenues;

• Nearly 525,000 jobs; and

• $377,000 in cumulative property tax revenues generated per mile of a pipeline for a typical Texas county.

*in today’s dollars

“The 2022 Analysis of the Current and Future Economic Impact of the Texas Oil and Gas Pipeline Industry study shows that the Texas midstream industry is an economic powerhouse, delivering billions of dollars to state and local coffers and providing hundreds of thousands of well-paying jobs,” said Thure Cannon, president of TPA. “Without the network of natural gas gathering and transmission lines and storage facilities, Texas would not only be deprived of the vital fuels and hydrocarbons it needs to grow and thrive, but also the revenues, taxes and jobs that bolster the state’s economy.”

Pipelines transport a variety of energy products, including natural gas, crude oil and refined petroleum materials that are used for heating homes, generating electricity, fueling vehicles and manufacturing a wide range of consumer goods. Without pipelines, it would be difficult to transport

these products efficiently, cost-effectively and safely, which would ultimately result in higher energy costs and decreased availability of the hydrocarbon products that Texans and all Americans rely on every single day.

“The Texas midstream industry will be a crucial player on the global playing field far into the future, while delivering trillions of dollars in economic benefit and more than half a million jobs to the state,” said study author Bradley Ewing, PhD, who holds the McLaughlin Endowed Chair of Free Enterprise and is Professor of Energy Commerce in the Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University. “It is clear that pipelines are of great benefit to the residents and businesses of this growing state.”

Visit the 2022 Analysis of the Current and Future Economic Impact of the Texas Oil and Gas Pipeline Industry study online for more information.

ABOUT TPA

Texas Pipeline Association (TPA), the largest state trade association in the country representing solely the interests of the intrastate pipeline network, is the primary resource for information regarding the Texas pipeline industry. TPA provides advocacy on issues related to pipeline safety, environmental regulations, taxation and legislation. Member companies and their representatives commit to conducting their business in accordance with integrity, honest communication, fair right-of-way acquisition, respectful construction and safe operations. Visit TPA at texaspipelines.com

The Battle Between HydrogenPowered Cars And Battery EVs

By: Felicity Bradstock

While the battery electric vehicle (BEV) has been stealing most of the attention in the world of clean transportation, one lesser-known alternative is quickly gaining traction – the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). The FCEV is powered by green hydrogen, a rapidly growing industry in both the US and globally. And while some have critiqued the technology, others believe that hydrogen will be the fuel of the future, offering drivers a similar experience to traditional vehicles with no carbon emissions.

Battery Versus Hydrogen-Powered

Battery-powered BEVs are powered by an electric motor, which uses electricity derived from a lithium-ion battery. These batteries require lithium, mined from underground deposits, to run, much in the same way as many other electronic devices, such as phones and laptops. But just like with these devices, the batteries must be regularly charged for around 30 minutes or longer.

In comparison, FCEVs are powered by hydrogen – with green hydrogen being the cleanest option. They do not release any emissions, just water vapor and air, making them much greener than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to run. Further, they can be fueled much like traditional ICE cars, using a pump at a gas station to top off the hydrogen level.

Support for FCEVs is increasing in line with investment into green hydrogen operations, which remain much more expensive than fossil fuel-derived hydrogen at present. The sector is attracting interest as it does not rely on the mining of the finite lithium resource to power the vehicle, meaning it can avoid supply chain constraints and could be more environmentally friendly.

The US Context

In the US, President Biden wants half of all U.S.-sold vehicles to run on electricity by 2030. While BEVs are racing ahead at present, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will provide funding for all clean vehicle options, encourag-

Battery-powered BEVs are powered by an electric motor, which uses electricity derived from a lithium-ion battery.

ing producers to be innovative and accelerate their manufacturing efforts.

In addition, it is important to diversify the industry to reduce reliance on any single technology, as manufacturers might face difficulties in developing enough EVs for the growing consumer market. Moreover, the green hydrogen industry is expected to grow at a rapid rate in response not only to consumer vehicle demand but also thanks to its potential use in industry and public transport. Hydrogen fuel could help many manufacturers decarbonize as they shift away from fossil fuels in factories.

While the drawback of green hydrogen is its expensive production costs, which need to decrease from $840 per kilowatt at present to $420 per kilowatt to make it a viable option, costs are expected to improve immensely with significant funds being pumped into research and development worldwide.

But there are several benefits to using hydrogen including a longer driving range and

shorter fueling time. The average FCEV runs for around 300 miles and can be refueled in 10 minutes, compared to the average BEV range of 200 miles and 45 minutes of fueling.

Criticism Over Hydrogen Vehicles

But FCEVs have faced staunch criticism, particularly, and perhaps unsurprisingly, from Tesla CEO Elon Musk. In 2019, Musk called FCEVs “mind-bogglingly stupid,” referred to the technology as “fool cells,” and a “load of rubbish,” and told Tesla shareholders at an annual meeting several years ago that “success is simply not possible.”

In 2021, he echoed this sentiment, “It’s just very difficult ... to make hydrogen and store it and use it in a car… The best-case hydrogen fuel cell doesn’t win against the current case batteries, so then, obviously ... it doesn’t make sense.” He also said, “That will become apparent in the next few years. There’s ... no reason for us to have this debate, I’ve said … my

piece on this, it will be super obvious as time goes by, I don’t know what more to say.”

FCEVs Are Catching Up Thanks To Major Automakers

Yet, huge progress has been made on FCEVs in recent years, showing it may not be all hot air. China is rapidly growing its hydrogen EV market, with the country’s largest fuel cell producer, Sinofuelcell, expecting to double its sales this year. It predicts at least 2,500 of its hydrogen fuel cells will make it to China’s roads in 2023. Meanwhile, major automakers, such as Toyota and Hyundai have long supported FCEV technology. Toyota expects its new Crown sedan to boost fuel cell car sales to 8,000 this fiscal year, from 3,440 last year. Most of these sales will be aimed at the Asian market, although the auto giant hopes to sell its FCEVs in the US soon.

Meanwhile, Hyundai is introducing its XCIENT Fuel Cell tractor to the US market. Mark Freymueller, Senior Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicle Business Innovation at Hyundai Motor stated, “For years, we have been initiating hydrogen value chains in various regions. Together with our partners, we are making hydrogen mobility a viable solution for our customers. We go beyond the truck itself to include areas such as hydrogen refueling and truck maintenance.” Freymueller added, “Here in the U.S., we plan to do the same, since each case needs its tailor-made service approach, especially during the transition phase from traditional to hydrogen. We plan to provide the best hydrogen value chain scenario for each and every customer.”

While Asia is leading in FCEV technology and consumer uptake, the US is not far behind, with climate initiatives such as the IRA helping to encourage greater innovation and diversity in clean transport. Higher levels of funding in the green hydrogen industry will support the shift away from fossil fuels to clean alternatives in both industry and transportation. And as major automakers develop their US market profile, it is only a matter of time before the hydrogen FCEV grows to compete with the better-known BEV.

About the author: Felicity Bradstock is a freelance writer specializing in Energy and Industry. She has a Master’s in International Development from the University of Birmingham, UK, and is now based in Mexico City.

While Asia is leading in FCEV technology and consumer uptake, the US is not far behind, with climate initiatives such as the IRA helping to encourage greater innovation and diversity in clean transport.

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT SOLAR TAX CREDITS IN 2023

By: Tyler Reed, MBA

With the green revolution in full swing, renewable energy has become much more enticing for many homeowners. The investment in solar power for your home is a high upfront cost. A single solar panel costs an average of $16,000. However, the 2023 solar tax credit may help offset that cost.

The government is offering significant tax credits to entice homeowners to start producing renewable energy. The drive to go green can be a rewarding investment in your future. There are benefits to installing solar panels on the federal, state, and local levels. With a powerful tax incentive to invest in solar panels, it may be worth considering for your home.

The Investment in Solar Power

Installing solar panels is no small feat. Depending on the type and model of solar panels, the venture could cost up to $35,000 per panel. For the average homeowner, investing in renewable energy may be attractive but not affordable. Of course, every situation is different. With the government’s solar power tax credits, the solar panels’ cost could be somewhat offset.

If you’re considering switching to solar power, several factors must be considered. Before diving in, you may want to think about the following elements:

• Your budget

• Your average cost of utilities annually

• What type of solar panel do you want?

• Your current environmental footprint

• Which solar panels are the best investment for your home/area?

• The space needed for a solar energy system

• Will your home be able to take full advantage of a solar energy system?

• The geographical location of your home

As you weigh your options for solar panels, consider every angle. If you decide solar energy is a suitable investment for you, there are tax credits and incentives to make the switch.

Is Solar Power the Best Option for Your Home?

You have many options for renewable energy sources. However, solar energy is quickly becoming one of the most popular at-home solutions. The solar power industry has grown rapidly.

If your home and budget are well suited for solar panels, it may be the right move for your home. If the benefits outweigh the cost, it may be worth looking into installing solar panels in your home. Solar panels have the following potential benefits:

• Increases your home value

• Stabilizes cost of utilities

• Self-sustainability

• Preparedness for electrical outages and disasters

• Local, state, and Federal incentives

• Smaller environmental footprint

Economic factors are among many other elements when considering solar energy. However, the government has many incentives to make the switch to solar.

How Does a Federal Solar Tax Credit Work?

A federal tax credit reduces your taxable income. This inducement from the Federal Government can significantly lower your tax bill. A tax credit is different from deductibles or exemptions. With the tax credit, you can receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your taxable income. This amount can significantly impact the taxes you owe at the end of the year.

In 2006, the Federal Government instituted the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC).

THE GOVERNMENT IS OFFERING SIGNIFICANT TAX CREDITS TO ENTICE HOMEOWNERS TO START PRODUCING RENEWABLE ENERGY.

Purchasing a solar energy system qualifies you for a percentage off your tax credit. The ITC for systems installed in the tax years 2022 through 2032 will be 30% of the system’s cost. For systems installed in 2020 through 2022, the ITC provides 26%. The significant reduction in taxable income may persuade many homeowners to install a solar photovoltaic system.

When you claim the federal solar tax credit, it’s important to understand exactly what to expect. As you file your taxes, bear in mind the following factors:

• A tax credit is not a tax refund: The tax credit only reduces your taxable income. It is not an assured refund or even a refunded amount. Although a tax credit may contribute to the amount you receive back in a refund, it is not the refund itself.

• You can only claim a solar tax credit once: You will only be allowed to claim the solar tax credit One time. This is not a reoccurring or renewable break on your income taxes.

• Your tax credit can roll over: If the amount you owe in taxes is less than the tax credit you receive, your tax credit can roll over to the following year.

The tax credit may be a powerful incentive to switch to solar energy. However, you must meet the qualifications to claim the credit on your income taxes.

How to Qualify for the Solar Tax Credit

You must follow specific parameters to qualify for the federal solar tax credit. Your system must have been installed or used for the first time between 2006 and 2023. Furthermore, you must be the owner of the solar system to qualify. Renting or leasing a system will not make you eligible for the ITC. As it is a federal tax credit from

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the United States government, the system is required to be located within the United States. Systems outside the United States do not qualify for the tax credit, even for American citizens.

The system must be in your primary or secondary residence to qualify for the solar tax credit. This residence must be located within the United States. Offsite community solar projects are also generally eligible to receive the ITC.

Keep in mind, the ITC requires specific systems in order to qualify. To receive the tax credit, you must install either a solar water heater or a solar photovoltaic system. The systems must be installed within a United States residential property.

What Expenses Does the Solar Tax Credit Include?

The ITC covers more than just the cost of the solar panels alone. When preparing to claim your tax credit, you will need to include the cost of the following related expenses:

• Solar photovoltaic panels or photovoltaic cells

• The cost of contractor labor

• Site preparation costs

• Batteries and other energy storage devices are used for the system. (Must have a rating of 3 KW to qualify)

• Complementary systems installed for solar energy or solar water heaters

• Sales tax associated with eligible expenses

When you consider the additional costs associated with installing solar energy systems, the tax credit you receive could increase. When you make your claim, include all the eligible costs.

Other Incentives for Solar Energy

There are other levels of incentives to go solar. State-specific and local incentives may apply to your area. These additional encouragements to go solar can come as rebates and payments. Here are some possible inducements:

• State tax credit: Like the federal tax, certain states offer a tax credit for installing renewable energy systems. Be aware a state tax credit could affect your federal taxes and vice versa.

• Rebates from your electric utility provider: You could receive a rebate from your utility company for installing a solar energy system.

• Payments from your utility provider for excess electricity: Municipal providers may offer payment for additional electricity your solar system generates. Provided you sell additional

electricity back to you this utility provider, you could receive compensation appropriate for the energy you provide.

• Payment for renewable energy certificates: Sources other than your utility company may pay you for the renewable energy you produce. However, this income is considered taxable in most circumstances.

• Rebates from state government: Rebates from your state government do not reduce your federal tax credit. You may receive a onetime rebate from your state government for installing your solar power system.

• Environmental incentives: When installing a solar energy system, you are stepping towards renewable energy. This can help both the environment and your economic footprint.

• Less dependence on local utilities: Solar panels produce your own energy. When you install a solar power system, you will have less dependence on your local utilities for electricity.

There are many reasons why you may want to go solar. With the monetary incentives and environmental reasons, it may be worth considering for your home.

Is

the Solar Tax Credit Worth it?

Monetarily speaking, your personal finances will help you determine if the solar tax credit is worth it. If you are planning on installing solar panels for your home anyways, taking advantage of the ITC is a no-brainer. However, if your sole reason for installing a solar energy system is to receive the tax credit, you should consider the costs and benefits before committing.

Naturally, there are other reasons for wanting to go solar. Environmental benefits, economic benefits, and personal preferences need to be considered. For many homeowners, switching to solar energy or a solar water heater may be a personal decision based on non-monetary factors.

Stay in the Know in the World of Energy with Shale Magazine

Shale Magazine is your source for the straight facts on the energy world. We provide the inside knowledge and reliable resources our readers need to stay abreast of the goings on in the energy industry. We dig deep into the subterranean levels of intel to provide expert knowledge from trustworthy sources. You can rely on us to do all the leg work and provide impactful information.

Check out our latest issues or follow our award-winning podcast, In the Oil Patch, for more insights into the wide world of energy.

About the author: Tyler Reed began his career in the world of finance managing a portfolio of municipal bonds at the Bank of New York Mellon. Four years later, he led the Marketing and Business Development team at a high-profile civil engineering firm. He had a focus on energy development in federal, state, and local pursuits. He picked up an Executive MBA from the University of Florida along the way. Following an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded a content writing agency. There, they service marketing agencies, PR firms, and enterprise accounts on a global scale. A sought-after television personality and featured writer in too many leading publications to list, his penchant for research delivers crisp and intelligent prose his audience continually craves.

MONETARILY SPEAKING, YOUR PERSONAL FINANCES WILL HELP YOU DETERMINE IF THE SOLAR TAX CREDIT IS WORTH IT. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS FOR YOUR HOME ANYWAYS, TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THE ITC IS A NO-BRAINER.

WHEN YOU CONSIDER THE ADDITIONAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH INSTALLING SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, THE TAX CREDIT YOU RECEIVE COULD INCREASE. WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR CLAIM, INCLUDE ALL THE ELIGIBLE COSTS.

THE GREAT SOCIAL DEBATE - TWITTER VS THREADS, TO TWEET OR TO SEW?

By: Leslee Hope Haynes

As social media platforms evolve, new players often emerge to challenge the status quo. One such recent development is Meta’s Threads, a text-based app that aims to challenge Twitter’s long-established position. In this article, we examine the debate surrounding Twitter and Threads. Some key differences and features are highlighted to help readers decide which serves them best.

How Twitter and Threads Work

Twitter’s account management operates independently, allowing users to sign up using their credentials. On the other hand, Threads is closely tied to Instagram, requiring users to log in using their Instagram credentials. When setting up a Threads account, users have the option to import their bio information and followers from their existing Instagram profile. Notably, deleting a Threads account necessitates deleting the associated Instagram account, unlike Twitter, which can be deactivated independently.

Twitter has evolved from its origins as a website and now offers appbased versions for iOS and Android while maintaining its website version

for added flexibility. Threads, however, is currently available exclusively as a mobile app for iOS and Android, without a corresponding website version. This distinction suggests that Meta’s Threads focus is primarily on the mobile user experience, unlike Twitter’s multi-platform approach.

Verification in Social Media

Both Threads and Twitter offer free access to their basic functionalities. However, Twitter has introduced a premium subscription tier called “Twitter Blue,” which offers additional features for a monthly or yearly fee. At the time of writing, Twitter Blue provides benefits such as tweet editing, customization of the app icon, and an increased rate limit for reading tweets. In contrast, Threads does not currently have a paid subscription or hidden features behind a paywall.

Verification is an essential aspect of social media platforms, providing users with a way to establish their authenticity. Threads and Twitter employ different approaches to verification. Threads leverages the existing verification system from Instagram, meaning that if a user is verified on Instagram, their verification status

carries over to Threads. Twitter’s verification system has changed, and it currently offers a verification badge through its Twitter Blue subscription. Government accounts receive gray checks, while established organizations and news outlets receive gold checks.

Comparing Unique Features of Threads vs. Twitter

Both Twitter and Threads offer unique features and user experiences. Threads allows users to import profiles they already follow on Instagram, leveraging Instagram’s large existing user base. Additionally, Threads offers integration with Instagram, enabling users to share their Threads posts on their Instagram stories or profiles. Threads’ homepage resembles Twitter’s “For You” page, displaying content from accounts users follow and might find interesting. However, Twitter provides more options for filtering the feed, including the ability to view trending topics and explore different categories.

Threads also offer the option to hide like counts on posts, which extends to the associated Instagram profile. This diverges from Twitter’s recent addition of view counts and

bookmarks. Furthermore, starting a thread on Threads requires hitting the enter key three times, while Twitter utilizes a plus button for starting threads. Notably, Threads lacks the option to save drafts of posts, which is available on Twitter. There have been reports of bugs during Threads’ launch, highlighting some onboarding issues.

The emergence of Threads as a contender in the social media landscape presents users with an alternative to Twitter, offering unique features and integration with Instagram. While Threads shares similarities with Twitter, such as the text-based format, it also differentiates itself through its tie-in with Instagram and its mobile-only experience. Twitter, as an established platform, continues to evolve and offers a broader range of features, including the Twitter Blue subscription. Ultimately, the choice between Threads and Twitter depends on individual preferences, the desired feature set, and the platforms with which users are already engaged. As social media platforms continue to evolve, users can explore and evaluate the available options to find the platform that aligns with their needs and preferences.

About the author: Leslee Hope Haynes is a multifaceted professional who specializes in marketing, branding, cinematography, production, and editing. Her career spans various industries, including weddings, education, oil, gas, energy, and marketing. Leslee’s commitment to her craft and diverse skill set make her an invaluable asset in the media and creative fields.

With many talents, Leslee’s versatility plays a vital role in Energy Network Media Group. Among her duties as the administrative manager for EN Media Group, Leslee also provides multimedia design. Leslee designs our event and social media graphics, films, and edits videos for Shale Magazine and In The Oil Patch Radio. Leslee is also our email and social media marketer. In addition to marketing and multimedia design, Leslee maintains our website and writes and edits articles for SHALE Magazine.

IMPROVE YOUR GOLF HANDICAP AND HEALTH

By: Joel Dahlenburg

The connection between health and golf has long been embraced by the world’s best players. Stronger, faster, and fit golfers are hitting the ball further, and are maintaining focus and energy throughout the entire round.

However, the average golfer does not need to spend thousands of dollars on a personal trainer or hours in the gym or on the driving range to improve their health and golf game. What they need are the right exercises that will focus on improving both their fitness and golf game. This post will look at three areas of fitness that impact golf and provide a few simple exercises anyone can do to improve their handicap through better health.

Fitness and Golf: A Perfect Match

Golf fitness has been on the rise over the last 20 years. When golfers make millions of dollars a year and compete against the best players in the world, they need to be in top physical shape. The leader in this golf fitness trend is The Titleist Performance Institute, which has grown to over 19,000 certified trainers in over 63 countries since its inception in 2003. They work with golfers of all calibers to analyze and apply ways to get stronger, faster, and stay focused longer.

A great example of the benefit of golf fitness can be seen with Phil Mickelson. He won a major championship at 50 years old, becoming the oldest major winner in history. His ability to continue to hit the ball over 300 yards and maintain his mental and physical endurance during the round contributed to this accomplishment.

The average golfer may not have Phil’s team of trainers, but nor do they need it. Most golfers are not competing against the world’s best for their livelihoods. They simply want to enjoy the sport for as long as possible and maybe get a little better each year. What seasoned golfers need is a routine that will strengthen the physical and mental parts of their game without having to spend hours on the range. This begins with knowing the areas to work on and getting into a good exercise routine.

Three Areas to Improve Your Fitness

The golf swing requires the entire body to work together. A perfect synchronization of muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance produces the beauty of the textbook golf swing. Therefore, exercising to better your golf game also produces overall better health.

There are three primary areas to your physical fitness that can help improve your golf game:

1. Strength: There are great benefits to strength training for golf. Increased strength can produce farther driver distances. But hitting it far is not only a result of raw power, but of muscle stability and explosiveness. Strength training can help improve balance, control, and fast power, all of which are required for properly swinging with more power and speed. Golfers need speed and control more than power.

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YOGA CAN BE A GREAT TOOL TO HELP GOLFERS AVOID INJURIES AND LOOSEN UP AFTER SITTING AT A DESK ALL DAY.

2. Flexibility: Driver distance is also related to flexibility. Rotating on the back swing and creating torque, or elasticity, in the core impacts the ability to create speed. Flexibility also helps maintain fluidity and length of the golf swing, allowing for smooth and long swing, rather than a short, painful jabby swing. Especially for those who may not get out on the links as often, improving flexibility is crucial to reducing pain and maintaining a consistent and powerful swing.

3. Endurance: An aspect of physical health that may be overlooked in golf is endurance. Maintaining top physical performance throughout the round is important to improving scores. Muscle and mental fatigue can reduce distance, focus, and cost players shots in a round. ESPN reported that Rory McIlroy cited fatigue as the main reason for his poor Sunday performance at the 2014 Tour Championship, costing him the championship and the $10M FedEx Cup.

These are three important areas that can help improve a golfer’s game. However, it is also essential to assess your own strengths and weaknesses to know what areas need the most work. Each person will be different and targeting the areas specific to you will help maximize your efforts.

Train for Success

Success in golf, like in life, does not mean the same result for everyone. Some may view success as lower scores. Others may view it as making it through a full 18-hole round, whether in a cart or walking. Regardless, there is preparation for any kind of success and improving in the above categories is how golfers can train their bodies to achieve their view of success. Here are three simple exercises that can help improve your strength, flexibility, and endurance without requiring long hours in the gym or hundreds of dollars in trainers.

SQUATS

Squats focus on lower body strength and stability, which are the power and stability muscles in the golf swing. According to strength and conditioning coach Jamie Greaves, squats are also “really good for mobility through the ankles, knees and hips, as

well as core control and trunk control.” These can be done with or without weights, depending on your abilities and level of fitness. Areas to focus on as you work on your squats include:

• Form: Feet are shoulder width apart and back straight. When you begin to squat down, it is important to keep the hips back, as this will “help minimize the stress on your knees and afford you more power from the hip muscles.”

• Weight: The weight is not as important as getting a full range of motion by going all the way down and all the way up. If this cannot be achieved with added weight, start with only body weight. Good form is more important than lifting heavy weights.

• Reps: For golf, we want strength, not girth. According to Men’s Health, the best range for building strength is 3 sets of 10 reps. If this is too easy, try to add some weight but also maintain good form.

• Maximizing Squats: Former tour pro and golf fitness icon, Scott Stallings, says to descend slowly and hold for a couple of seconds at the bottom. This helps with muscle stability. Then be explosive on the way up, which can improve lower body power.

YOGA

Yoga can be a great tool to help golfers avoid injuries and loosen up after sitting at a desk all day. There are a plethora of free yoga apps that provide simple stretching routines that can help improve hip rotation, balance, mobility, heart rate control, and reduce the risk of injury. Pro golfers, such as Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, and Natalie Gulbis all do yoga to help improve their flexibility, increase their body control, and maintain their heart rates with breathing exercises.

CARDIO

This can include running, biking, walking, swimming, rowing, stair climbing, high intensity training, or anything that gets the heart rate up. This also forces the individual to push their limits and develop the mental fortitude to keep going when their energy is low.

Cardio helps golfers increase physical

stamina and mental focus throughout the entire round, which helps avoid unforced errors due to physical and mental fatigue. Remember Rory McIlroy’s heartbreaking loss at the 2014 Tour Championship and year-long, $10M FedEx Cup all because of fatigue on the final round.

Along with these exercises, a healthy diet can help maintain energy and contribute to an overall healthier disposition. This healthier lifestyle can improve your ability to swing the golf club and stay focused throughout the entire round.

Play Golf for a Healthier Lifestyle

Just about all physical activity can have positive health benefits. However, there are a few activities that allow for all ages and physical abilities to participate. Golf is one of those few that has virtually no age limit, nor physical requirements. An eight-year-old and an eighty-year-old, a professional athlete and a wounded vet can all enjoy golf and its health benefits.

In addition to the health benefits of training for golf, according to the Orthopedic Institute, golf alone has a couple of primary health benefits that provide good excuses to get out and play:

• Golf stimulates the cardiovascular system, which contributes to good heart health.

• The light exercise of walking the golf course can help improve lung function.

Additionally, getting outside can also help reduce stress and improve overall mood. If anyone needs an excuse to get out and play a few holes, or simply despises the gym but wants to get in better shape, let them get out and play some golf!

Stay Up-to-Date with the Business of Energy

At Shale Magazine, we keep our fingers on the pulse of industry so that our readers can be informed, not influenced. With accurate, fact-based reporting we share information like the tools and tips on health and fitness to help support the overall well-being of our business leaders and professionals. Stay connected with us by checking out our latest issues or tuning into our award-winning podcast series, “In the Oil Patch,” with host Kym Bolado.

State of Energy Corpus Christi

By: Leslee Hope Haynes

The bustling city of Corpus Christi, Texas, hosted the highly anticipated State of Energy Luncheon presented by SHALE Magazine on May 15, 2023. The event provided a dynamic platform for industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to gather, share thoughts, and explore the energy sector’s future. The event drew interest from energy enthusiasts, professionals, and media sources alike, due to an exceptional lineup of speakers and panelists.

The luncheon began with an interesting keynote address by Mike Sommers, the acclaimed President, and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute (API). Sommers, known for his pivotal role in creating energy policies, captivated the audience with his deep awareness of the industry environment and provided insightful thoughts on the current and future state of energy.

After the keynote presentation, an expert panel took the stage to discuss hot themes and industry trends. The panelists comprised Enbridge Senior Vice President Phil

Anderson, Cheniere Energy Executive Vice President, and COO Corey Grindal. The speakers engaged in intelligent conversations on various facets of the energy sector, spanning from infrastructural development to environmental sustainability, moderated by Sean Strawbridge, Chairman of the AAPA and former CEO of Port Corpus Christi.

The State of Energy Corpus Christi event facilitated fruitful connections between prominent firms and industry influencers. In attendance were executives and representatives from well-known energy businesses, midstream companies, and government agencies. The event created a conducive environment for networking, exchanging ideas, and exploring prospective partnerships, adding to the gathering’s overall liveliness.

The luncheon had a great impact on the local community in addition to its industry relevance. The goal of the event was to bridge the gap between the energy sector and the people of Corpus Christi, emphasizing the need for community engagement. SHALE

Magazine and the event sponsors exhibited their dedication to establishing ties with residents and highlighting the good contributions of the energy industry through a variety of projects.

The SHALE Magazine-hosted 2023 State of Energy Corpus Christi Luncheon proved to be an amazing forum for industry executives and stakeholders to gather, exchange views, and promote progress in the energy sector. The event emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth in defining the future of energy with its influential keynote speaker, exciting panel discussions, and emphasis on community engagement.

The State of Energy Corpus Christi Luncheon created a lasting impression on guests by offering a comprehensive review of industry trends and establishing connections, contributing to the ongoing dialogue and growth of the energy business. To get connected, consider joining us for our next energy networking event.

Unveiling Houston’s Vibrant Social Tapestry: Texas’ Largest City’s Alluring Social Scene

By Leslee Hope Haynes

Houston has a lively social scene that includes a diverse range of cultural events, humanitarian activities, and corporate networking opportunities. The city’s social calendar is jam-packed with events that represent the city’s dynamic energy, from elegant galas to community-driven fundraisers. In this piece, we will look at Houston’s social scene, emphasizing recent charity efforts, creative enterprises, and record-breaking events that have made business headlines. Let’s dive in!

Philanthropy & Giving Back: The nonprofit sector in Houston has grown significantly in

recent years, thanks to generous donations and the city’s strong sense of community. One famous example is millionaire MacKenzie Scott’s surprise $3 million donation to a Houston nonprofit, proving her devotion to supporting local organizations. This philanthropic act highlights the city’s burgeoning nonprofit scene as well as the impact individuals may have in supporting great causes.

Innovation and Startups: Houston’s business ecosystem continues to thrive, with several innovative firms making waves in a variety of areas. Houston-based startups saw

significant investment rounds and successes in the second quarter of 2023. Cart.com, a Houston-based e-commerce unicorn, raised $60 million in a series C fundraising round, consolidating its position as a leader in commerce and logistics enablement software. P97 Networks, a mobile commerce and digital marketing startup, also received an additional $40 million to assist its growth and expansion goals. The city’s startup environment continues to draw investment and nurture innovation, making it an appealing destination for both entrepreneurs and investors.

Record-Breaking Social Gatherings: Following the city’s reopening after COVID-19 restrictions, Houston experienced an unprecedented spike in social gatherings and parties. Over 50 charitable events, ranging from galas to fundraisers, were held throughout the city in October, indicating a revived excitement for gathering and supporting great causes. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston Dinner, which collected $1 million to support after-school and summer activities for children and teens, was a notable event. Theatre Under the Stars’ “Lights Up” event raised an astonishing $735,000 for the organization’s arts education program for young adults with disabilities. The Bentley family spearheaded the Homemade Hope Gala, which earned over $250,000 to empower impoverished Houston children through culinary instruction and life skill development. These events highlight the city’s philanthropic dedication and capacity to band together for a good cause.Alluring

Houston’s social scene is a thriving tapestry of philanthropy, creativity, and celebration. Philanthropic efforts by the city, as seen by generous gifts and successful fundraisers, contribute to the growth and well-being of its neighborhoods. At the same time, Houston’s startup environment continues to stimulate innovation and attract investments, transforming the city into an exciting destination for entrepreneurs and investors. The increase in social gatherings during the COVID-19 outbreak demonstrates the city’s resiliency and citizens’ yearning to engage with one another and support diverse causes. Houston's social scene reflects the city’s diverse culture, entrepreneurial drive, and persistent dedication to making a good difference.

ITOP’S 400th Episode

By Leslee Hope Haynes

In a world where misinformation often clouds the perception of the energy sector, the "In the Oil Patch Radio Show" continues to stand as a beacon of reliable information. It empowers listeners with accurate knowledge and fosters a deeper understanding of the oil and gas industry's significance in modern life.

On August 6, 2023, the In The Oil Patch Radio Show celebrated its 400th episode. Four hundred episodes, according to the show's host, Kym Bolado, is a testament to loving what you do. Kym goes on to state that she never thought the show would get past 100 episodes!

Mike Howard, the chairman, and CEO of Howard Midstream Energy Partners, LLC (HEP), was hand selected by Kym to celebrate episode 400. Mike Howard expressed that he was proud of Kym and excited for In The Oil Patch for coming from the outside of the oil and gas industry and successfully running a radio show for 400 episodes.

Mike is also celebrating a milestone in his company, the 12th anniversary of HEP. In June of 2011, Mike started a small pipeline company in South Texas with eight employees, which has now grown into a three billion dollar company with 350 employees in four states.

Bolado and Howard discussed a variety of issues, ranging from the current state of the global energy landscape to future trends and difficulties. Their honest talk gave listeners vital insights into the industry's complexities, allowing them to better comprehend the oil and gas sector and its impact on the global economy.

Other topics discussed were his partnership with the Port of Corpus Christi and the Department of Energy, CO2 pipelines, being the 1st pipeline company to have been granted cross-border pipeline access; access to building a pipeline from Corpus Christi crossing the Mexican border, the importance

of innovation and sustainability in the energy industry, developing capital for south Texas, the Port of Corpus Christi’s new leadership, and the continual growth of the energy sector.

The success of the In the Oil Patch Radio Show can be attributed to its commitment to providing balanced and accurate information about the industry. Bolado's enthusiasm for energy-related topics, along with professional guests such as Mike Howard, resulted in a devoted and engaged audience over the years.

The show has evolved to meet the changing times and demands of its viewers over the course of 400 episodes. It has transitioned from a traditional radio broadcast to embrace the digital era, making its material available to a broader audience via podcasts and online channels. This versatility has helped the show to stay relevant in a changing media world.

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