The UK government has today (20 December 2021) launched a consultation on the design of a new climate compatibility checkpoint for the oil and gas industry.
The checkpoint will apply to any future oil and gas licences to ensure they are aligned with government’s climate change commitments, and the new measure will support the UK’s oil and gas sector in the transition to net zero.
This follows a commitment earlier this year to introduce the checkpoint as part of the North Sea Transition Deal. This landmark deal between industry and government is supporting the UK’s oil and gas sector in the transition to a lower carbon future. An orderly transition is crucial to maintaining the security of the UK’s energy supply, supporting high-value jobs, and safeguarding the expertise necessary to achieve a lower carbon future.
Dr Andy Samuel, Chief Executive of the Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) said:
We welcome the launch of this consultation. Alongside the net zero test the OGA is applying to our decisions such as field developments, these proposals recognise the important role of industry in helping meet the UK’s energy needs while accelerating the energy transition to net zero.
Further details on the consultation process, including how to participate can be found on the Gov.uk website here.