UK focus must return to offshore changes following Scotland decision
Sept. 22, 2014
Scotland’s decision to remain part of the UK has removed some of the uncertainty for the sector’s offshore asset owners, according to analysts Wood Mackenzie.
Offshore staff
EDINBURGH, UK – Scotland’s decision to remain part of the UK has removed some of the uncertainty for the sector’s offshore asset owners, according to analysts Wood Mackenzie. However, major challenges still need to be addressed.
Production on theUK continental shelf (UKCS) has been in decline since 1999, with growing instances of unscheduled maintenance and project delays and lower than expected recovery.
RecentUKCS exploration has also been disappointing, the analysts adds, with fewer than 330 MMboe of new reserves discovered since 2011. The trend is likely to continue with only 19 exploration wells spudded to date this year.
Although a high-cost environment has added to the complexity of addressing these challenges, a coordinated effort is needed on the part of theUK government and the industry. The recently established Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) will take a more active role in the stewardship of the UKCS.
Wood Mackenzie says companies will seek stability and simplicity around existing fiscal terms as well as tax incentives for harder to produce reserves, to help safeguard the sector’s long-term future.
