Burning ice

Gas hydrates represent an enormous possible energy source in Arctic Canada. However, they also pose a hazard to conventional oil and gas exploration and possibly represent a significant source of greenhouse gas. At the present time however knowledge about distribution and stability of Arctic gas hydrates is sparse. This is highlighted by a number of hydrate-related blow outs over past years.

Permafrost researchers at the GSC are world leaders in Arctic gas hydrate studies, collecting the first intrapermafrost hydrate samples and developing, in collaboration with Russian co-workers, unique laboratory testing apparatus. In collaboration with the Japan National Oil Company (JNOC) and the US Geological Survey, the GSC is leading an international science program based on the first hydrate-dedicated hydrocarbon exploration well drilled in the Mackenzie Delta, NWT in early 1998. This project (JNOC/GSC Arctic Methane Hydrate Research Well Program) holds the potential for appraising the economic potential of Arctic gas hydrates and for learning first hand about the distribution of hydrates in nature. It will undoubtedly lead to better resource and hazard assessments and should have important impacts on Canadian energy and envionmental policy.

For more information:

• Sustainable development of natural resources - Gas Hydrates
• Gas hydrates - Fuel of the future?