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Shale gas will “act as a bridge to the greener future we are all working towards,” according to new energy minister, Matthew Hancock.
In a letter responding to questions submitted via the ‘talk fracking’ campaign website, Hancock said the “government backs shale” because it will help the UK to lower its carbon emissions.
He said that shale gas would be used in gas-fired power stations to replace decommissioned coal to generate electricity “while we continue to develop low carbon generation”.
In addition shale can be used in domestic heating “while we develop and deploy renewable heat sources”.
Hancock added that shale gas is essential to help the UK to reduce its carbon emissions because “our journey towards a low carbon future will take some time”.
The energy minister also stated that while “shale will be a significant part of our energy future,” there are not any health or environmental concerns.
He said: “We are certain public health will not be put at risk and public safety is out number one priority.”
He added: “If there is a risk to groundwater, the Environment Agency can serve a prohibition notice on the operator.”
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