“UK production meets only 39% of UK gas demand according to latest figures, and without new investment, the UK’s reliance on imported gas will continue to increase,” Whitehouse stated.
The chief executive added that domestic natural gas production retains strategic importance for meeting energy demand.
“This matters because UK gas demand is expected to remain broadly unchanged over the next decade, according to forecasts from the National Energy System Operator (NESO),” he said.
Whitehouse also called for broader regulatory reforms to stimulate overall sector investment across the UK offshore energy industry.
“A positive decision on Rosebank and Jackdaw will play a part in restoring investor confidence, demonstrating that the revised regulatory regime is functioning effectively.
We need a regulatory framework that enables projects to move forward,” he said.
He concluded by urging the implementation of tax mechanisms designed to manage windfall periods.
“However, to unlock the wider pipeline of 111 offshore energy projects needed to support domestic production, jobs, tax revenues and economic growth, the accelerated implementation of the Oil and Gas Revenue Levy (OGRL) is required – a permanent windfall tax which is triggered during periods of high prices and is essential to boost investment in the North Sea,” Whitehouse said.
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Public consultations for the Jackdaw field run until August 10, 2026, while the consultation period for the Rosebank development concludes on August 17, 2026.
