Strasbourg, 21/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - The European Parliament acknowledges the potential of exploiting shale gas in Europe, which has large reserves of it, in terms of its contribution to both energy security and industrial competitiveness. An approach of precaution remains the best way, as regards the environmental risks related to extraction by hydraulic fracturing (see article below). However, the Parliament believes that Europe must learn from the experience of Canada and the United States.
The resolution on the industrial and energy aspects of shale gas and oil gas, drafted by the Greek MEP Niki Tzavela (EFD), which was adopted by a large majority (492 votes in favour, 129 votes against and 43 abstentions), stresses the need for respect for the basic principle of the common energy policy, that of subsidiarity. As the member states of the EU enjoy the sovereign choice to decide on their energy mix, it is their decision on whether or not to exploit a highly controversial fossil fuel, and on the method of extracting it via hydraulic fracturing in particular. As shale gas exploration may have a cross-border dimension, with an impact on the groundwaters, air and soil of more than one country, the Parliament is calling for the full disclosure of all technical and environmental problems related to exploration and for adequate cooperation between all stakeholders.
In a chapter on the energy aspects, the resolution stresses the need for the EU to have more specific and complete scientific data for sustainable extraction and use of shale gas which does not jeopardise the availability and quality of water resources. The EU is called upon to learn from the experience of the United States, where the boom in the exploitation of shale gas led to a drop in gas and electricity prices.
In a chapter on the industrial aspects, the resolution lays emphasis on the need for the European sector to be well-equipped in terms of infrastructure, labour and services. It also stresses the importance of a stable regulatory framework for investment, which is also solid to guarantee the necessary administrative and control resources for the sustainable development of all activities related to shale gas, including those laid down by European environmental legislation. (EH/transl.fl)