EC criticizes Poland on shale gas
15:47
European Commission Director General Karl Falkenberg has criticized Poland for not sticking to EU rules on shale-gas fracking during a conference organized by EP's Greens - the European Free Alliance.
"Shale gas will not bring about a revolution in European energy,” Falkenberg said during the conference. “Cheap energy is not the way to regain or maintain Europe's competitiveness,” he added.
Falkenberg reminded that the European Commission had already warned Poland for not complying with EU law on shale-gas exploration.
Under Polish law, exploratory drilling at depths of up to 5,000 meters don't require prior studies on environmental impact. In the EU's opinion, this is inconsistent with EU regulations.
The matter may be brought before the EU Court of Justice if Poland continues to breach EU law.
