Energy Update

(Wed, 03 Jun 2020) The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) two metrics for assessing 2019 underground working natural gas storage capacity in the Lower 48 states compared with the previous year show mixed results: one metric reported a small increase and the other a small decrease. EIA measures working natural gas storage capacity in two ways: design capacity and demonstrated peak capacity.

(Thu, 07 May 2020) In EIA's Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (WNGSR) published on May 7, 2020, EIA reported a net injection for the Lower 48 states of 109 billion cubic feet (Bcf)—the biggest net injection since September 27, 2019. The net injection was 35 Bcf more than the typical injection for this particular week, on average, for the past five years (2015-2019). The overall surplus of working natural gas inventory compared with the five-year average is now 395 Bcf.

(Tue, 05 May 2020) Distributed generation refers to onsite, behind-the-meter generation of energy. This often includes electricity from renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaics and small wind turbines, but it can also include electricity and captured waste heat from combined heat and power (CHP) systems in the buildings and industrial sectors. EIA works with technology experts to project distributed generation and CHP equipment cost and performance characteristics.

(Fri, 01 May 2020) EIA presents a series of structure and thickness maps of the Wolfcamp shale play of the Midland Basin, which is a part of the larger Permian Basin. These maps provide data on the structure, thickness, and play extents of Wolfcamp A, B, C, and D benches in the Midland Basin.