Germany eyes rules for controversial gas extraction

Feature discusses the situation in individual European countries as to the legal and regulatory situation as regarding extraction of shale gas. In particular, the features discusses developments in Germany.

As reported by EurActiv and EUObserver, Germany, a country struggling hard to find energy resources to replace nuclear power, had taken taken a step towards allowing the tapping of shale gas via hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, a practice contested by the opposition and public opinion.

The German government made public on 26 February 2013 a draft law allowing the development of shale gas through fracking, though under certain conditions.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Shale Gas: Finds that form a bedrock of hope http://www.europeansources.info/record/shale-gas-europe/

European Commission: DG Environment: Support to the identification of potential risks for the environment and human health arising from hydrocarbons operations involving hydraulic fracking in Europe (2012) http://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/energy/pdf/fracking%20study.pdf

EurActiv, 28.02.13: Germany moves to allow controversial shale gas drilling http://www.euractiv.com/energy/germany-tables-draft-law-allow-f-news-518131

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