Energy Blast – April 18, 2012

‘I must express my profound unease. It’s a negative decision for everyone’: Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy responds to Argentina’s plans to seize YPF, its energy assets apparently worth $18 million, in the South American country.  Argentinians however, seem to be hold favorable views on the idea.  Gazprom is considering joint ventures with Novatek to develop Arctic gas fields and boost planned production of liquefied natural gas.  China is beginning the landmark construction of a $630 million Neskra hydropower plant in Georgia this week, which is looking to cut energy dependence on Russia.  The Telegraph reports that Britain may have enough shale gas to become a top global producer of the alternative energy source.  Prime Minister Putin has reportedly hinted that taxes in the resources sector may have to rise.