Shale Revolution in the US: Factors of Origin and Consequences for World Energy System

Shale gas and tight oil are two of the main sources of energy today, even though commercial production started only in the 21st century. The focus of this paper will not be on the current situation on the energy carriers market, but on the future prospects of fuel and energy sector and on the assessment of the factors that led to such technological innovation in shale industry. These advanced production techniques have played an essential role in U.S. shale revolution. Although in the last couple of years the impact of shale revolution on the global economy weakened, this topic is still important because many countries try to solve the issue of energy security. The experience of American companies in shale industry can help them do so. Among the countries with the largest shale resource base, Canada and China are mentioned in this paper as the leaders of the industry outside of USA. Shale industries of both countries have necessary conditions which allow them to expect the rise in production and innovations in techniques. The emergence of other suppliers on the shale market will have a serious effect on the world’s fuel and energy sector. That is why in conclusion of this paper there will be an attempt to determine the consequences of shale revolution for the global market.