Denmark to Start Exploratory Drilling for Shale Gas

Frederikshavn City Council in Denmark has decided to allow shale gas test drilling to take place. The decision has been based on more than three years of research and studies conducted by Total E&P Denmark B.V. together with state-owned Nordsøfonden; the companies have also carried out a full environmental impact assessment, consisting of public hearings and consultations.

Two licenses were originally granted to the companies by the Danish Ministry of Climate and Energy in June 2010 to search for and produce oil and natural gas in two regions in the north of the country.

The licenses start with a six-year period dedicated to exploring the subsoil for shale gas.  Production of shale gas in Denmark could possibly start around 2020.

Spokesperson for Shale Gas Europe Marcus Pepperell said: “Denmark has an extended track record of promoting a sustainable energy programme and is a global leader in the development of alternative energy. Its decision to permit exploration of its indigenous shale gas reserves follows an extended period of review and assessment. 

 “Europe must take a more holistic view on its urgent energy needs. Government policies in different Member States mean that Europe is not producing enough of its own energy. This is becoming an increasing problem, resulting in more imports from abroad, whether gas from Russia or coal from the United States. While renewables become an increasingly important part of the energy mix, fossil fuels remain essential to power our homes and factories.

Denmark, along with the UK, Spain, Poland and Romania, has made a sensible and balanced decision that shale gas has an important role to play in meeting its future energy requirements.”