Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has welcomed increased estimates detailing the future shale gas potential of Yorkshire and Lancashire and believes that similar reserves could be found across Scotland and Fife.
The British Geological Survey was asked to estimate how much gas is trapped in rocks beneath Lancashire and Yorkshire.
It said there could be 1,300 trillion cubic feet at one site alone, but it is unclear how much could be extracted.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Nearly 40% of Scottish residents are stuck in fuel poverty and energy bills are rising faster than any other commodity, and for these reasons alone we must pursue paths towards creating cheaper energy.
“Across the Central Belt and Fife there are estimated to be significant reserves of shale gas and oil, for the sake of consumers, industry and the environment the Scottish Government must best utilise these resources.
“There is a growing body of evidence that suggests we have far greater shale resources than previously thought, last month the US Government’s Energy Information Administration calculated that a decade of shale gas reserves sits under the UK in easily recoverable positions.
“I would like to see the Scottish Government work with industry leaders and organisations such as the British Geological Survey to best calculate the specific nature of shale gas reserves under our soil.”