The Government has announced the names of the companies that have been awarded 27 new shale-gas licences to explore hydraulic-fracturing (fracking) opportunities in the UK.

In order to secure these licences, the companies have agreed to invest in exploratory work that is likely to involve a year of seismic surveys and analysis before any applications are made for drilling or fracking.

I-Gas, Cuadrilla, Ineos, Total and GDF Suez are among the established shale businesses that secured new licences to explore in northern England and the East Midlands — in many cases acquiring blocks near their existing rights. I-Gas received the most licences, with seven new exploration blocks in the Gainsborough Trough and East Midlands, five of which are in partnership with the French energy group Total.

Cuadrilla picked up two blocks in Yorkshire, while Ineos picked up three in the East Midlands.

The only less well-known companies on the list are Osprey and ADM. Large oil businesses such as BP and Shell have said in the past that they are not interested in bidding for these licences, and industry analysts say the announcement confirms that.

However, another 132 licences — currently subject to further environmental consultation — may be announced later this year.