Prices of gas in the US are 20% from those in Bulgaria, says US Energy Envoy for Eurasia Richard Morningstar, who was on an official visit to Sofia Thursday and Friday.

In an exclusive interview for the Bulgarian National Radio, BNR, Morningstar points out that the much lower prices are attributed to the exploration of shale gas and that bonuses from it are huge.

"I cannot promise that we will have the same results in Bulgaria, but if we can fully prevent risks for the environment, the issue must be examined in Bulgaria as well, which, as any other country, must know what it possesses and based on it, make a decision on extracting it or not," says he.

The US envoy, however, admits that the methodology for extracting shale gas has created environmental concerns, stressing that the latter have been examined very seriously and with great attention in the US.

Morningstar informs that his department had made a full review of the shale gas issues, and there is a final report of the Environmental Protection Agency whose publishing is forthcoming.

"We believe that the technology had advanced enough so that environmental risks can be tamed," he explained.

When asked to comment on statements of a French expert that there is only one method for extracting shale gas and that it is very dangerous, the Envoy replied that this was "the opinion of just one person."

"There are many other experts, who will tell you that one must examine the specific situation, the particular location of the drills – for example how many layers there are, etc. The issue is complex – it is indeed crucial for each country, not just Bulgaria or the US, or countries in Europe, to conduct rational and scientific studies and then make the decision, which should not be the result of emotions," Morningstar told BNR.

During her visit to Sofia last Sunday, US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, announced the Envoy's visit, saying the topic of the talks would be "ways to preserve the country's environment all while achieving energy independence."

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