Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle says the ground-breaking scientific research into shale gas currently underway in partnership with NMMU will be finalised by December this year.
Delivering his State of the Province Address in the Bisho legislature on Friday, the Premier said the research would map out a detailed technical understanding of the potential shale gas resource and possible environmental risks associated with its extraction.
This, he added, would enable the provincial government to plan for optimal socio-economic and environmentally responsible outcomes.
Masualle said the discovery of the shale gas reserve offers an opportunity to further grow the economy and to create much needed jobs.
