Because of its complexity, the study of the nation's natural gas self-sufficiency requires a regional approach. Before self-sufficiency can be empirically analyzed, it is necessary to delineate the regional factors involved. The objective of this research is to assess the potential for natural gas self-sufficiency on a national level through state and regional successes. This project will assess the probability and time-table for state and regional success through utilization of conventional and unconventional resources. The research will establish state- by-state energy consumption by user group both historically and based on expected future needs. Future energy demands will be forecast on a short term (5 year) and long term (20 year) basis. Supply projections will be forecast based on different production scenarios and per unit pricing structures. Gas needs will be balanced with available sources of supply to produce the most cost-effective mix profiles leading to the point of natural gas self-sufficiency.Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee:This project will facilitate regional sharing of resources, and therefore will reduce and possibly eliminate the need for gas imports. The results of this project will be beneficial to government research and development planners as well as gas producers in the industrial sector to assist them in decision-making.
