On 28 July the British government opened up the application process for shale gas exploration (fracking) licenses. Applications for new fracking licenses can be made until 28 October 2014. In addition to exploration licenses from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), and before drilling itself will be permitted, companies will have to obtain planning consent, permits from the Environment Agency, and approval from the Health and Safety Executive.
As the application process proceeds, United Utilities Water PLC has announced intentions to supply water to the oil & gas sector. United owns and operates water and wastewater assets in the North West of England supplied water for Cuadrilla Resources’ Blackpool well. The company provides water and wastewater services to approximately seven million residences and businesses in the North West of England.
Bluefield Takeaways
- UK policy decisions moving it to European fracking’s leading edge
- US utility experience highlights challenges for United Utilities
- Pennsylvania presents instructive landscape to UK regulators
