US shale needs to find new efficiencies

Output looks to a growth model based around doing more with less given green policy pressure, with tech advancements, equipment upgrades and fiscal tools key

US shale output growth will struggle to hit fresh records this decade unless it can unlock efficiency gains through fiscal management, adapt to growing policy and public pressure regarding the energy transition, and both make technological improvements and replace ageing equipment. US shale faces huge risks in its pursuit of accelerating production. First is the financial health and future plans of major frackers in relation to capital discipline and demand trends in the global economy—if demand falls precipitously then the stranded assets will become a liability. Second, there is policy and public pressure regarding the energy transition and the measures taken by oil majors to adapt by upgr