energy

For almost a decade, residents of some Pennsylvania counties have complained that the natural gas prospectors nearby have contaminated their water. Locals say that after the fracking for gas began, the water made them sick, that it turned brown, even that it became flammable.

Investments in efficiency are most cost-effective when electricity prices are highest. Smart meters are helping economists better estimate when electricity is needed to meet consumer demand.

The issue: Imagine: It’s a hot August evening, people are returning home from work and switching on their air conditioners. Electricity demand spikes.

Which American state has the most earthquakes? If you guessed Alaska or California, you might have been right — years ago. These days, the title goes to Oklahoma, where research links the oil and gas industry to the quakes.