next stop 25c?, page-12

Fraccing is not always necessary. For example, ESG's holdings near Narrabri NSW already have natural cracks in the coal, so they don't need to frack to get the gas out, providing the drilling is across the natural cracking dirction.

Even if it is necessary, it can be managed safely. The recent UK parliamentary enquiry concluded this, and rebuffs all the sensational claims generally reported. Like anything, fraccing can be damaging, if proper risk management, procedures and standards are not in place. This inquiry should facilitate DTE developing its Scottish assets.

The other main issue is impacts on water aquifers. This is no different to conventional drilling for oil/gas over a very long time. Once again, risk management, procedures and standards ensure that there is no problem. The CSG area is usually separated from water aquifers by impervious rock.

So, I think it may take a year or two for the hysteria to die down. Until then, DTE should be able to move ahead and sell some gas in Indonesia, China and maybe even Scotland over the next 12-18 months.