Poland shale gas - not now, not of great scale

The development of shale resources in Poland has hit problems. Development has been slower than expected, the technological issues more challenging, the reserves less promising and the bureaucracy more burdensome. The result is that the sector is unlikely to develop significant commercial operations within the next decade. When things do develop, they are likely to be on a smaller scale than initially hoped for. As investments shift elsewhere and hurdles remain, the long-term outlook for development has become less promising.

France and Poland have the greatest potential shale reserves in Europe but, so far, Poland been the leader in promoting shale, while other countries in the region have struggled against public opposition and environmental concerns. France and Bulgaria have banned hydraulic fracturing, and the Czech Republic is considering a ban. In Germany, Sweden and the UK there is strong opposition to the practice.