Over eight actions identified by the UK’s offshore oil and gas industry as essential if it is to realise a successful future in a lower carbon future have already been delivered, with a further 20 underway, despite the pressures heaped on the sector by the coronavirus pandemic.

Progress against an ambitious industry roadmap was confirmed by representative body OGUK, noting it as further evidence that the UK sector is embracing change.

Roadmap 2035: a blueprint for net zero, was one of the first UK industry responses to government commitments to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 in the UK and 2045 in Scotland. Published at Offshore Europe in 2019, the substantive document commits the sector to a range of actions to help meet the UK’s energy needs, support jobs, develop new technologies, cut emissions, and expand export opportunities.

The challenges and opportunities facing the sector a year on from the Roadmap will be the focus of an industry webinar, sponsored by Deloitte, to be hosted by OGUK on Tuesday 8 September 2020.

Commenting, OGUK Chief Executive Deirdre Michie OBE said:
“The UK offshore oil and gas industry has the essential expertise to help the UK meet its climate ambitions by 2050 while at the same time providing affordable energy for households and families, supporting jobs, and creating exciting energy jobs of the future.

“Despite the challenges heaped on the sector by the coronavirus pandemic and low oil and gas prices, a number of actions of Roadmap 2035 have already been delivered and many more are underway. This progress is testament to the fact that our industry is changing and is committed to positive change for the long term.

“As we look to further challenges ahead, support of government and regulators remains critical if we are to be able to realise our full potential through the energy transition. The North Sea Transition Deal can be a catalyst in delivering Roadmap 2035 and supporting the green recovery, as well as specific recognition from governments and politicians of the positive role we can play in our economy and society.”

Graham Hollis, office senior partner for Deloitte in Aberdeen commented:
“There is no doubt that the sector is under immense pressure as businesses grapple with the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic as well as the fallout from the Saudi-Russia price war. Despite this, it is promising to see the strong progress being made and the sector’s willingness to enact positive change while continuing its important role in maintaining jobs and affordable energy.

“It is crucial that this momentum is maintained, and businesses must continue to innovate and collaborate to deliver on the ambitions of Roadmap 2035 and ensure the country’s future, sustainable energy mix.”

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Oil & Gas UK