Gas Hydrates: Unlocking a Vast Undersea Energy Resource
- vidyarthee2021
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
China has taken a significant leap in energy research by initiating the construction of the world’s first permanent undersea research station dedicated to the study of gas hydrates. These unique formations have the potential to redefine global energy security, as they may hold energy reserves larger than those in the Persian Gulf.
What are Gas Hydrates?
Gas hydrates are ice-like crystalline solids formed by a combination of gas molecules, primarily methane, and water.
These formations are found in low-temperature, high-pressure environments, such as:
Marine sediments, typically a few hundred meters beneath the seabed.
Permafrost regions, such as in the Arctic.
Why Are They Important?
Methane hydrates are a massive untapped source of energy.
They are classified as unconventional hydrocarbons, as their extraction requires non-traditional techniques unlike conventional oil or natural gas.
A single cubic meter of gas hydrate can release 164 cubic meters of methane, making it a highly dense energy source.
Challenges of Extraction
Extraction is technologically complex and poses environmental concerns, especially methane leakage which is a potent greenhouse gas.
Requires advancements in deep-sea drilling, depressurization, or thermal stimulation methods.
Gas Hydrates in India
Vast deposits have been identified in:
Krishna-Godavari (KG) offshore basin
Mahanadi Basin
Andaman Sea region
The National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP), led by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas along with the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH), is tasked with exploration and technological assessment.
Significance for UPSC
Related to GS Paper 3 (Energy, Environment, Science & Technology, and Disaster Management).
Useful in topics on unconventional energy sources, India’s energy security, and climate mitigation strategies.
Also relevant for questions on India’s deep-sea missions and ocean-based economic activities.
UPSC Prelims Statement-Type Question
Consider the following statements about gas hydrates:
Gas hydrates are composed primarily of carbon dioxide trapped within water molecules.
They are found only in deep-sea marine sediments and not in permafrost regions.
India has identified gas hydrate reserves in the Krishna-Godavari Basin and the Andaman Sea.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect – Gas hydrates are composed primarily of methane, not carbon dioxide.
Statement 2 is incorrect – They are found both in marine sediments and permafrost.
Statement 3 is correct – India has found significant deposits in the Krishna-Godavari Basin and the Andaman Sea.
UPSC Mains Question
Q. What are gas hydrates, and why are they considered both a promising and challenging energy resource? Discuss their strategic significance for India’s energy security.
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