Produced Water And Flowback From Hydraulic Fracturing Operations And Options For Their Reuse

Abstract

As Alberta continues to expand, there is greater strain placed on our water resources. If the province is to meet its growing water demands and maintain a sustainable and competitive economy the government will need to examine alternative water sources. Water reuse presents a potential solution to our upcoming water scarcity. Produced waters/flowback from hydraulic fracturing operations are a potential source of reusable water. Alberta must update their water management and reuse policies, legislations technologies and practices in order to meet our water and energy needs currently and in the future. This paper investigates and reviews the reuse of produced water and flowback from hydraulic fracturing operations for shale gas in Alberta and the regulatory challenges and opportunities associated with this. Specifically, it delves into the quality and quantity of produced water/flowback, potential reuse applications, and environmental considerations. The paper also reviews and compares government regulations in Canada, the United States of America, Alberta, British Columbia and California. Finally, based on the research conducted it outlines potential opportunities for reuse and provides recommendations to promote the reuse of produced water/flowback in Alberta.