There’s an interesting article over at Environment & Energy Publishing that puts forth the premise that a lack of pipeline infrastructure is what’s really slowing down the growth of shale fracking.  I think they’re right.  Of course, once pipelines are in place, consumption will need to increase, but consumption will increase if the pipelines can be put in place.  There’s too much demand for cheap, clean energy, and natural gas offers the best balance of clean and cheap right now.