EU Plans Shale Gas Regulations

The European Energy Commissioner said that he intends to introduce community wide rules on the development of shale gas.

Guenther Oettinger said that the move to standardize regulations was necessary in the face of environmental concerns related to the process of hydraulic fracturing used in the extraction of the unconventional gas.

"I think we'll get a high level of acceptance when we have the same, European common standards, a high level of safety and security and quality for environmental interests," said Oettinger.

A report issued in July on shale gas and shale oil development prepared by German experts for the European Parliament drew an outcry from Polish MEPs.

The report titled Impacts of Shale Gas and Shale Oil Extraction on the Environment and on Human Health, was harsh in criticisms against the extraction of hydrocarbons from shale on environmental and sustainability concerns.

The Commissioner said that he hoped to put forward proposals to member states in Spring 2012.

Related Reading: EU Shale Report Generates Controversy