Global Shale Gas Market Grows Steadily at a CAGR of 7.05%

Introduction

Shale gas is a type of natural gas located within deep underground shale rock layers. It is mainly composed of methane and is obtained using a method known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," which involves injecting high-pressure fluids into the rock to release the gas. In recent years, shale gas has emerged as a vital energy resource, particularly in the United States, playing a major role in boosting domestic energy output. Its expansion has contributed to lower energy costs and reduced reliance on coal. However, its extraction has also raised environmental issues, such as the potential for groundwater pollution and an increase in seismic activity.

Economic growth in emerging economies drives the global market

Economic development in emerging markets is a significant factor driving the growth of the shale gas industry. Rising industrialization and urban expansion in countries like China, India, and Brazil are leading to increased energy demands, with shale gas playing a vital role in meeting these needs.

• For example, China's shale gas output surpassed 25 billion cubic meters in 2023, making a substantial contribution to its overall natural gas supply. The Fuling shale gas field in Chongqing has been instrumental in this growth, having produced more than 70 billion cubic meters since its launch and delivering energy to over 70 cities within the Yangtze River Economic Belt.

With the continued rise in energy consumption across emerging economies, this upward trend in shale gas utilization is expected to persist.

Strategic partnerships and acquisitions create tremendous opportunities

Strategic alliances and acquisitions offer substantial growth opportunities within the shale gas industry. Companies are increasingly forming collaborations to broaden their operational capabilities, pool resources, and gain access to advanced technologies.

• For example, in April 2025, Mubadala Energy of Abu Dhabi acquired a 24.1% interest in Kimmeridge's shale gas assets in Texas. This acquisition supports Mubadala's objective of expanding its presence in the U.S. natural gas market and reflects a wider trend of Middle Eastern investment in American energy infrastructure.

Such collaborations allow firms to benefit from local expertise, improve production efficiency, and ensure a reliable energy supply for global markets. Acquiring interests in shale gas projects also helps companies boost their competitive edge and diversify their energy portfolios.

North America dominates the global shale gas market, driven by extensive reserves, advanced extraction technologies, and supportive regulatory frameworks. The United States leads global shale gas production, accounting for over 70% of total output, primarily from the Marcellus, Permian, and Haynesville basins. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that shale gas production reached a record high in 2024, significantly reducing reliance on coal and boosting LNG exports to Europe and Asia.

Canada also contributes notably, with the Montney and Duvernay formations offering vast potential. The recent approval of new LNG export terminals along the Gulf Coast, such as Venture Global's Plaquemines LNG, underscores the region's growing role in global energy security. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and innovation, North America is set to remain at the forefront of shale gas exploration and export over the coming years.

Key Highlights

• The global shale gas market size was valued at USD 10.12 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow from USD 11.03 billion in 2025 to reach USD 22.03 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.05% during the forecast period (2025–2033).
• By type, the global shale gas market is segmented into horizontal fracking, vertical fracking, and rotary fracking. Horizontal fracking dominated the market.
• In terms of application, the market is divided into power generation, industrial, residential, commercial, and transportation.
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

The key players in the global market are Chevron Corporation, ExxonMobil Corporation, Royal Dutch Shell Plc, BP Plc, TotalEnergies SE, ConocoPhillips, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, EOG Resources Inc., Devon Energy Corporation, Equinor ASA, and others.

Recent Developments

• In May 2025 – US shale gas producer Coterra Energy reported a rise in first-quarter profits but announced a cut in its annual capital expenditure due to prevailing macroeconomic uncertainties. The company lowered its capital budget for 2025 to a range between $2.0 billion and $2.3 billion and reduced its planned rig count in the Permian Basin from ten to seven for the second half of the year.

Segmentation

1. By Technology
   1. Horizontal Fracking
   2. Vertical Fracking
   3. Rotary Fracking
2. By Application
   1. Power Generation
   2. Industrial
   3. Residential
   4. Commercial
   5. Transportation