The last two graphs provide two more cautious estimates of the global hydrocarbon resource -- one including renewable fuels and the approximate costs of production using today's technology.The purpose of such graphic resource estimates is to provide a visual impact beyond what mere numbers often provide.The very generous Swindell estimates on top come with several sources, provided at the link. The source of the shale gas maps data is listed on the maps. The data in the next to the last chart above is taken from BP estimates, and the data in the last one is taken from IEA sources.Keep in mind that resource estimates are not proven reserves, but are rather a guesstimate of where future technologies may eventually lead based upon best available data. Proven reserves have always risen, and continue to do so as discoveries and new technologies warrant.It should be easy to see from the charts how important liquefaction technologies (GTL, CTL, BTL etc) will become over the next few decades. As abundant and cheap process heat from advanced modular nuclear reactors becomes available, such liquefaction processes will come into their own, economically.

Labels: unconventional hydrocarbons