The UK Oil
and Gas Authority (OGA) has awarded 41 new licences to explore the UK
Continental Shelf in the North Sea.
The new
licences are in addition to the 134 confirmed in late-2014, which bring the
total to 175 licences to explore 353 blocks.
The awarding
of new licences has been confirmed following additional environmental
assessment and consultation.
UK Oil and
Gas Authority chief executive Andy Samuel said: "The UK Continental Shelf
remains a world-class hydrocarbon province where significant resources and
economic value remain to be realised.
"The
good level of interest in the 28th Round highlights the continued attractiveness
of the UK's oil and gas resources.
"Licences
are however just a start and industry, government and the OGA now need to work
together to revitalise exploration activity across the basin and convert
licences into successful exploration wells."
During the
next session of parliament, the OGA is expected to convert to a
government-owned company, separating itself from the UK's Department of Energy
and Climate Change, according to upi.com.
UK Energy
Minister Andrea Leadsom said: "We are determined to make the most of our
North Sea resources to provide secure, reliable energy for hardworking families
and businesses and reduce our reliance on volatile foreign imports.
"The
28th offshore licensing round comes after the government announced a major
package of support in March to encourage £4bn of additional investment in the
North Sea, which will prolong the life of this vital industry."
(offshore-technology.com, 28 July, 2015)