A new interactive mapping application that reveals the location of every energy-related site in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) is expected to bring real benefits for exploration and the search for carbon storage locations.

The game-changing app shows the proximity of existing oil and gas infrastructure to wind farms, electrical cables and carbon capture and storage (CCS) sites, which will assist in gauging the potential for reuse when decommissioning assessments are being made. It has also provided valuable information in prioritising areas for seismic shooting before a windfarm development is built.

Potential locations for platform electrification, gas-to-wire schemes and green hydrogen production can also be more readily found by using the app.

The map data itself stores details about the infrastructure which, combined with spatial locations, can support a wide variety of activities such as site survey cooperation, area planning, conflict resolution and disaster response.

The Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) has worked with The Crown Estate (TCE) and Crown Estate Scotland (CES) to create the app, which lists over 60 in-construction or active wind, wave and tidal sites on the UKCS as well as recently awarded CCS licences and 489 petroleum licences.

The mapping application, is automatically updated as each of the organisations logs new information and is the first time that the locations of all oil and gas and renewables sites have been presented together. A ground-breaking example of collaboration across organisations involved in Energy Transition.

Nic Granger, OGA Director of Corporate, said: 
“This app will be a valuable tool for the energy industry both today and in the coming years. It is a significant addition to the digital services we already offer through our Data Centre.”

Adrian Fox, Head of Offshore Assets at The Crown Estate, said: 
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with the OGA on this digital project, making it easier for customers to view vital data about existing offshore infrastructure, which will support the co-ordinated growth of the renewable energy sector.”

Sian Wilson, Senior Development Manager at Crown Estate Scotland, said: 
“We are really pleased that this information is now accessible in one place. At a critical time in the path to net zero and blue economy growth, this simple to use app makes data and information available which will help decision makers and developers alike.”

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Oil & Gas Authority