Economics of Oil Shale Development

With high attention being focused towards the development of unconventional fuels, the United States' domestic oil shale resource has been given significant consideration as a viable source for domestic fuel. The United States is home to the world's most concentrated oil shale resources. The development of an oil shale industry has the potential to provide significant economic benefits; however, major development hurdles must first be overcome. This chapter will discuss the current state of oil shale economics in regards to the market value of oil shale, development costs, project schedules, risks, and leasing regulations.