The commercialization of unconventional resources has attracted the attention of U.S. independents, international and national oil companies (NOCs) seeking a new platform for growth. Looking to capitalize on the discoveries of abundant U.S. tight-oil, shale-gas and coalbed methane reserves, energy executives have been adapting their companies’ strategies to position for growth in this space and mitigate threats or risks associated with changes in upstream economics.

It is notable that the “shale rush” happened at a time of historical lows in natural gas prices, while conventional oil production has been providing ...