Shell claims Shale Gas could provide enough power for everyone in the world for 200 years and yet fracking has caused one of the greatest controversies in the energy world in recent history. A green alternative to renewables or more dangerous than nuclear? – the debate shows no sign of ceasing up. As the UK environmental agency gives it the green light and France bans it outright Nick Grealy, of No Hot Air, provides the lowdown on the biggest concerns circulated by the “Against” camp.

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#1 Shale Gas production will cause my water to catch fire

Ever since the documentary Gasland infamously depicted director Josh Fox setting fire to tap water residents claimed had been polluted by fracking, concerns have been raised about methane contamination of water. And there can be no doubt that methane can be found in high enough levels in water to make it flamable. In fact it’s been documented in many reports like this one (2006), and this one (1983) – interestingly, both published well before fracking.

This does seem to suggest methane can occur quite naturally in water which, by the by, is still quite drinkable. Just don’t go lighting it on fire.

You could watch Gasland or you can watch Fox being questioned about this omission here.

You can watch also Nick setting fire to water containing naturally occurring methane near Dimock Pennsyvlvania.

This post is part of our series: 12 myths surrounding shale gas production, by Nick Grealy. Download the ebook here >