Two resolutions approved by MEPs in plenary session underline that the emergence of exploration for shale oil and shale gas in some EU countries should be backed up with "robust regulatory regimes". Moreover, an amendment urging member states not to authorise any new fracking operations in the EU, tabled by MEPs from various groups was rejected.

The European Parliament approved two resolutions that stressed that the emergence of exploration for shale oil and shale gas in some EU countries should be backed up with "robust regulatory regimes". MEPs also highlighted that member states should also be cautious about permitting exploitation of unconventional fossil fuels pending further analysis of whether EU-level regulation is appropriate. A study published in September 2012 has suggested that the EU can maintain its dependency on energy imports at around 50% of its total energy needs.

MEPs also underlined that the prospect of expanding exploitation of unconventional fossil fuels suggests that a thorough analysis of EU regulation on these fuels is needed, although the European Commission has concluded that EU rules adequately cover licensing and early exploration and production of shale gas. They added that environmentally-friendly processes and best available techniques should be used to achieve the highest safety standards.

The resolution also stressed that companies must disclose which chemicals are used, in order to comply with EU legislation. It adds that special plans for water use should accompany any hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") activities and as much water as possible should be recycled. In addition, an amendment urging member states not to authorise any new fracking operations in the EU was rejected by 391 votes to 262, with 37 abstentions.