Prague Post: Residents reject shale gas drilling

Shale gas was all the rage in European energy circles last year, but yet another blow has been dealt to energy companies hoping to strike it big as the Czech Republic mulls joining France, Bulgaria and Romania in banning shale gas exploration.

In response to a petition that garnered the support of 50,000 residents concerned about the environmental impact of drilling, along with the criticism of several regional governors, Environment Minister Tomáš Chalupa (Civic Democrats) has said he will propose a moratorium on shale gas exploration for up to two years until clear rules for the sector are established.

The proposal backpedals on the ministry's decision last year to allow companies interested in shale gas exploration to apply for permission to research potential sites for drilling.  MORE