JOURNAL ARTICLE

Natural Gas Boom Will Spur a Shortage of US Fracking Gear, Shale Boss Says.

  • Published In: Bloomberg.com, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Sanchez, Emma 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the anticipated shortage of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) equipment in the United States later this decade due to rising natural gas exports and increased domestic demand. Andy Hendricks, CEO of drilling contractor Patterson-UTI Energy Inc., highlights that activity in US shale fields, especially the Haynesville basin in Texas and Louisiana, is expected to grow significantly through 2027, driven by gas consumption for export and power generation. This surge is linked to expanded pipeline infrastructure connecting gas basins to Gulf Coast export terminals and increased domestic use, including power plants for artificial intelligence data centers. Hendricks notes that fracking equipment powered by natural gas is already fully booked, indicating a need for new equipment manufacturing to meet future demand. Additionally, Patterson-UTI is exploring potential operations in Venezuela, though such efforts would require considerable lead time before drilling begins. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Bloomberg.com. 2026/03, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Power and Energy
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:192230826
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