Dr Steven Chu, the United States Secretary of Energy, has just announced that the United States is actively supporting research into the exploitation of methane hydrates and that it views them as a promising potential source of energy.

As methane hydrates are found in high abundance along the sedimentary basins of almost all continents, they could also represent a source of energy for the European Union.

Does the Commission have any information on the potential of methane hydrates along European coasts?

Does the Commission plan to support research into this potential form of energy?

What future does the Commission see for the exploitation of methane hydrates in Europe’s energy mix?