But fracking has done more than expand the American energy industry. It has also opened up a new kind of buy-to-let market.

North Dakota is one US state which has seen a massive influx of workers as a direct result of fracking. But according to international property development company Property Horizons, there are drastic housing shortages in the state and this has given rise to new buy to let investment opportunities.

Property Horizons now has two developments in the region. Its executive hotel studios in the town of Williston, at the heart of the oil boom, house single oil workers in high-end accommodation with six residents per suite.

From $27,950, investors can own a fraction of a studio or a full studio for $49,590. A full suite of six studios will set them back $289,700 (including a $10,000 discount).

Property Horizons says projected rental yields are a staggering 46% annually and an optional five year rental assurance, at 25% net per year, is also available.

For oil workers whose families have followed them to North Dakota, Property Horizons offers single families homes.

The 174 homes, each on its own 1-2 acre plot, are available from $300,000 for a 3 bed/2 bath property, to around $350,000 for a 4 bed/3 bath home.

Buy-to-let investment opportunities have predicted rental returns of 13%-15% for corporate tenancies.

These figures are without question attractive in today’s low growth, low interest rate environment.

The question is: with fracking technology making its way across the Atlantic, will there be an opportunity for savvy UK buy-to-let investors?