Whats the difference between shale gas and coalbed gas?

There is a lot of confusion regarding the terms Shale Gas and Coal Bed Methane, along with an array of other terms. Here, I attempt to clear up some of the confusion regarding the terms and associated issues. TERMINOLOGY Shale Gas is defined as a natural gas produced from shale. read more

Methane: In the shale gas debate, commentators sometimes make a distinction between natural gas and methane. In fact, as the chart above demonstrates, natural gas mostly is methane. When it’s released directly in the atmosphere – rather than being burnt – methane is a powerful greenhouse gas. read more

Shale gas is similar to gas from conventional rocks, which exists in the gas phase at pressure inside the porosity. Most shale reservoirs are actually grading toward silty sands, and are not true shales. read more

Shale gas comes from (i.e., is found in) shale and coalbed methane gas comes from coal seams. It may seem like a facetious answer but that's all there is to it. read more