A long-hidden energy resource in the UK, called shale gas, has caused debate for years. Extracting it requires fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, which has been politically controversial since 2011. Fracking has been banned multiple times by different prime ministers because of concerns over earthquakes and environmental damage.
Now, Reform UK, a party led by Nigel Farage and currently leading in opinion polls, wants to restart fracking if it wins the next general election.
Richard Tice, Reform UK’s deputy leader and energy spokesperson, said:
“We’ve got potentially hundreds of billions of pounds worth of shale gas. Leaving it underground is financially irresponsible.”
The History of Fracking in the UK
Fracking has been used in the UK oil and gas sector for decades but became a political issue around 2010 when shale gas boomed in the United States.
- Past efforts struggled: Former energy minister Charles Hendry says UK fracking faced planning delays, protests, legal challenges, and minor earthquakes.
- Political bans: David Cameron promised a “shale gas revolution,” but it never happened. In 2019, fracking tremors led to a temporary ban.
- Recent attempts: Former PM Liz Truss lifted the ban in 2022, but opposition and internal Tory disagreements caused political instability. Her successor, Rishi Sunak, reinstated the ban, and Labour aims to make fracking illegal permanently.
Hendry believes Reform UK may face the same challenges. He warns that even supporters may resist fracking if environmental and safety concerns arise.
Reform UK’s Plan for Shale Gas
Reform UK says it would take clear steps to restart shale gas extraction:
- Lift the fracking ban immediately if elected.
- Work with energy companies to explore shale gas using new extraction methods. These would be independently monitored to ensure safety.
- Test potential sites: The British Geological Survey has identified areas like Lancashire and parts of the Midlands for possible commercial extraction. Reform UK plans to test wells and confirm whether fracking is viable within two years.
- Private investment only: Unlike Labour’s green energy plans, Reform UK would not use public funds. The government’s role would be creating an attractive regulatory and tax framework for companies.
Energy companies are already preparing. Egdon Resources estimates shale gas in one area could be worth £140 billion and create 250,000 jobs. CEO Mark Abbott says the company would invest millions if regulations allowed.
Challenges and Opposition
Experts caution that UK fracking is not easy:
- Geological difficulties: The UK’s shale basins are complex, making extraction expensive and technically challenging.
- High costs: UK shale gas may not compete with cheaper imports from countries like Norway. This means energy bills might not drop in the short term.
- Environmental concerns: Fracking is linked to earthquakes, water contamination, and other environmental risks.
Professor Michael Bradshaw of Warwick Business School notes that last attempts yielded little progress, and these challenges remain today.
Energy Transition and the Future
While fossil fuels will still play a role, the world is moving toward clean energy. Labour’s government focuses on renewable power and aims to meet 100% of UK electricity demand from clean sources by 2030.
Energy Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh says:
“Banning fracking and investing in clean power will protect energy security and consumers from rising costs.”
If Reform UK tries to restart fracking in 2029, it could clash with global trends favoring green energy.
Key Takeaways
- Reform UK is serious about shale gas and has plans to work with private companies to test and extract it safely.
- Political, environmental, and economic barriers make fracking a difficult challenge in the UK.
- Energy transition matters: While fossil fuels remain important, clean energy investment is growing.
- Investor interest: Shale gas could create jobs and economic value if regulations support private investment.
Latest News: Reform UK plans fracking revival amid political debate.
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