Government to review fracking earthquake regulations
The government is planning to review rules designed to reduce the risk of earthquakes from fracking operations, a civil servant said this morning.
Fracker says UK energy policy unachievable and gas is a 100-year bridge fuel
UK government policy on reducing greenhouse gas emissions is unachievable, according to a leading figure in the fracking industry.
Fracking opposition overtakes support – government survey
Opposition to shale gas has overtaken support for the first time in an ongoing government study of public attitudes. The latest research in the Tracker survey, published today, found 27% of those questioned opposed shale gas, compared with 26% who supported.
Fracking supporter appointed as new DECC chief science advisor
The government has appointed Professor John Loughhead, head of the UK Energy Research Centre, as the new Chief Scientific Advisor to the Department of Energy and Climate Change. He replaces Sir David MacKay.
Change to trespass law on track for drillers, despite 99% opposition
The government is going ahead with plans to change the trespass law to give underground access to oil and gas drilling companies, despite more than 40,000 objections.
Energy minister dismisses fears about fracking
The government has dismissed concerns about the impact of fracking on health, water quality, climate change and local businesses. It also rejected criticism of conflicts of interest and a failure to take part in public debates about fracking.
“We need to frack” letter is genuine – Cuadrilla responds to Balcombe
11th July 2014 Cuadrilla has again confirmed to Balcombe Parish Council that it does not plan to frack at Balcombe “now or in the future”. The company was responding to a letter, written three years ago by one of its directors to the Department of Energy and Climate […]
Government accused of blocking the release of information on fracking industry contacts
27th June 2014 The Department of Energy and Climate Change is criticised today for failing to release details of its contact with oil and gas companies on the issue of fracking.
Cuadrilla gets extension to its Balcombe exploration licence – but stands to lose neighbouring licence
5th June 2014 The Department of Energy and Climate Change has confirmed it has extended Cuadrilla’s licence for oil exploration and production in the area which includes Balcombe in West Sussex. But the company is likely to lose its licence for the adjoining area, around Heathfield and the […]
Shale environmental assessment high on uncertainty and assumptions
The report commissioned by the Government to assess the impact of onshore shale oil and gas development admits to multiple uncertainties and makes assumptions that opponents regularly challenge. Uncertainties The report (released 17/12/13) is part of the preparation for the government’s sale of onshore oil and gas licences […]
