Netherlands: Government Takes Time on Shale Exploration

Netherlands’ Economic Affairs Minister Henk Kamp told parliament that a decision on shale gas would not be taken for at least another 18 months, with the involvement of local councils in the three areas earmarked for test drilling.

At the end of August, a consortium formed by Witteveen + Bos, Arcadis and Fugro presented a report about the potential risks of shale gas, supporting developments in the country. 

The Dutch coalition government has not yet formed a clear stance with respect to shale gas. Liberals endorsed it on several occasions, while Labour members voted against hydraulic fracturing at a party congress in May. They stated their willingness to change their position in case research shows it can be done safely. 

Haaren and Boxtel in Brabant and the Noordoostpolder north east of Amsterdam are the three areas selected for test drilling. Local communities voiced their concern, showing their reluctance to host explorations.

UK’s Cuadrilla Resources said it was disappointed by the delay, adding that further research would remove locals’ fears.