Ukraine: PM Azarov Confirms Shale Gas Extraction to Start in 2015

Ukraine’s Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said on Monday that shale gas would be extracted in the country from 2015. This declaration is nothing new, but it further underlines the determination of the country to proceed with shale exploration. 

On Friday, Royal Dutch Shell signed an agreement with Ukraine to explore the Yuzivska block, with gas extraction activities starting in 2015. 

A note of the office of the prime minister reported that Ukraine chose Royal Dutch Shell ‘because the company has the latest technology making safety gas and oil output in these populated areas.’

“We will gain some energy independence, whereas Shell will earn their money,” commented Azarov on Saturday.

Yuzivska area is situated on the territory of Donetsk and Kharkiv regions. Royal Dutch Shell estimated 3-3.5 trillion cubic meters of gas in place. Along with conventional natural gas, the company plans to extract both shale gas, and tight gas.