Scottish Government revises energy strategy regarding North Sea oil and gas

The Scottish government is preparing to update its energy strategy, signaling a shift away from its long-standing opposition to new oil and gas exploration in the North Sea. The revised policy is expected to allow new projects to be considered without an initial presumption against development, though climate compatibility assessments will remain a requirement.

Senior government officials indicate the updated strategy should be released by summer. This move follows a resolution by the Scottish National Party to support domestic oil and gas production over imports. While the Scottish government shapes its strategy, the UK government maintains primary licensing authority and is expected to approve the Jackdaw gas field, with a decision on the Rosebank oil field pending.

Scottish Labour has criticized the delay in publishing the strategy, noting that a draft was first released in January 2023. Party energy spokesman Daniel Johnson described the wait as “ludicrous,” arguing that the lack of a finalized plan creates uncertainty for workers and businesses regarding investments in oil, gas, renewables, and nuclear energy.