Several British energy companies have renewed their campaigns against restrictions on the use of hydraulic fracturing techniques at unconventional gas fields. They appear to hope that Boris Johnson, the country’s new Prime Minister, will champion their cause.
Johnson has spoken out in favor of fracking, arguing that British operators should have the option to frack their wells. Likewise, Andrea Leadsom, the newly appointed Minister of Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy, has said shale gas projects can create jobs and contribute to economic growth.
Johnson and his cabinet may not have an easy time gathering support, as opposition to fracking remains widespread.
Ken Cronin, the CEO of UK Onshore Oil and Gas, told Bloomberg this week that the seismic rule ought to be reviewed. “We were stymied by the 0.5 [upper limit], and we think that there is good scientific evidence out there to increase that level,” he said.