Energy Secretary Ed Davey has just given the go-ahead for fracking, the technique used to extract shale gas, to resume in the UK, subject to controls “to mitigate the risks of seismic activity”. Exploration was previously halted after test-drilling by the company Cuadrilla caused two minor earthquakes in Lancashire.
Davey said: “Shale gas represents a promising new potential energy resource for the UK. It could contribute significantly to our energy security, reducing our reliance on imported gas, as we move to a low-carbon economy. My decision is based on the evidence. It comes after detailed study of the latest scientific research available and advice from leading experts in the field.”
However, he cautioned that “We are still in the very early stages of shale gas exploration in the UK and it is likely to develop slowly. It is essential that its development should not come at the expense of local communities or the environment. Fracking must be safe and the public must be confident that it is safe.”
New controls to limit seismic risk include:
- A prior review before fracking begins must be carried out to assess seismic risk and the existence of faults;
- A fracking plan must be submitted to DECC showing how seismic risks will be addressed;
- Seismic monitoring must be carried out before, during and after fracking;
- A new traffic light system to categorise seismic activity and direct appropriate responses. A trigger mechanism will stop fracking operations in certain conditions.
In addition, Davey announced that he was commissioning a study of the possible effects of shale gas development on greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, although green campaigners are questioning why this was not held before the latest annoucement.
Greenpeace’s energy campaigner Leila Deen said: “George Osborne’s dream of building Dallas in Lancashire is dangerous fantasy. He is not JR Ewing and this is not the US. Energy analysts agree the UK cannot replicate the American experience of fracking, and that shale gas will do little or nothing to lower bills. Pinning the UK’s energy hopes on an unsubstantiated, polluting fuel is a massive gamble and consumers and the climate will end up paying the price.”
It became clear that ministers were preparing to give fracking the green light after George Osborne’s Autumn Statement promised tax incentives for shale gas industry and announced the establishment of the “Office for Unconventional Gas”.
Labour has said that fracking should only go ahead “if it is shown to be safe and environmentally sound” and that it will “look carefully” at the government’s proposals. Shadow energy secretary Caroline Flint added: “The idea that this form of gas extraction can have the same impact here in the UK as it has had on gas prices in the United States is considered wishful thinking by most experts.”
We’ll have more response to the announcement later on The Staggers.
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