exploration and development of shale gas in china: a review

This study presents a critical historical review of shale gas exploration and development in china from 2000 to 2020. it reviewsachievements in theoretical and technological understandings by summarizing successful experiences in commercial development andprospects for future development. the analytical review implies that shale gas has become an emerging unconventional resource ofenergy, gaining much importance as a substitution over the past two decades with the use of cutting-edge technology. the developingproportion of natural gas in china's energy utilization system and the success of its commercial potential, along with significant progressin the prospective evaluation and pilot testing, indicates that shale gas is likely to be the most reliable future source of energy in china.the production of shale gas in the sichuan basin and its environs has relied on technological advancements in six areas: comprehensivegeological evaluation; development optimization; fast drilling of horizontal wells; volume fracturing of horizontal wells; factory-likeoperation, and efficient and clean production. further, the accomplishment of economic development of shale gas can be summarizedfrom four key factors: (a) optimized horizontal section targets; (b) supporting technologies for effective and fast drilling and volumefracturing stimulation; (c) geological and engineering integration; (d) advanced organization and management. lastly, with ananticipated 30 to 60 billion m^3 yearly commercial output in china indicates that shale gas has an immense usage potential to supportfuture natural gas production growth. the given analytical, historical review is significantly helpful for stakeholders to formulatepolicies concerning the exploration industry.