I think most of you still remember Statoil’s announcement in July that they have been awarded a Technical Cooperation Permit for shale gas study in Karoo Basin.

It seems that they are moving along quite well.

http://www.naturalgasforamerica.com/

“We are now completing a two-year analysis of shale cores from around the globe,” said Knight, including shale plays in China, South Africa and the Gulf of Mexico.”

http://www.epmag.com/2010/August/item66212.php

Of South Africa, where coal is the primary source of fuel, Knight said, “Expect to Statoil and Chesapeake operating in this area soon.” In addition, to the lower emissions garnered by natural gas, the region also host a number of gas to liquids facilities, which would give an unconventional gas development quicker access to market.

“Our goal is to take what we are now learning in the Marcellus and transport these skills to other parts of the world,” Knight said.