The Church of England has decided fracking is morally acceptable, according to reports.
An article in The Times said the move could help pave the way for drilling to take place on Church land.
It comes after years of debate on the issue.
The church has published a lengthy briefing paper which has given cautious support for fracking subject to conditions.
It includes strict regulation, environmental monitoring and potential remuneration for those affected.
The Church of England said fracking could be used as an energy method to tackle climate change as long as it was used as a replacement for other sources.
Petrochemicals giant Ineos welcomed the report and said it would be speaking to church groups about access to land when appropriate.