At the end of 2011, the Cantabrian governement approved the concession of exploratory fracking in Arquetu. This exploratory project will last for 6 years and will take place within a surface of 24,876 ha. It will affect the municipalities of San Vicente de la Barquera, Valdáliga, Rionansa, Tudanca, Udías, Cabezón de la Sal, Ruente, Cabuérniga and Los Tojos.

During these years the exploratory fracking operations will consist of drilling wells, stimulating them via hydraulic fracture and doing production tests.

Also since 2011, a very strong grassroots anti-fracking movements has emerged in Cantabria. It is organised through the assembly against hydraulic fracture. This movement has launched a public campaign against the expansion of fracking in Cantabria, spreading information and organising workshops, talks and meetings with citizens and Mayors; organising demonstrations and events to raise awareness about the potential both social and environmental consequences of fracking.

As a result of this campaign, more than 30 municipalities have declared themselves against fracking. In April 2013, the Cantabrian regional Parliament banned fracking in its region.

However, the concessions already given have not been revoked yet and this ban does not affect further exploratory fracking.