The UK’s offshore and onshore energy resources are being developed by a wide range of companies spanning different sectors. These rich and abundant resources continue to attract new companies and investors from within the UK and overseas.
 

As regulator for oil and gas, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage, the North Sea Transition Authority uses its powers to make sure that companies from these industries operate in a responsible way which supports the UK’s energy security and helps the government meet its net zero 2050 target.   

We use our licensing and consents processes to determine which companies can undertake oil and gas exploration and production, as well as gas storage, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage activities, to ensure that work progresses in a timely manner, activities follow good industry practice, and that operators adhere to agreed limits on production volumes and flaring and venting. Operators also need separate authorisation before they construct or carry out work on a pipeline or well.  

We also work with a range of partners, including the government, Crown Estate and Crown Estate Scotland, to ensure demand for space is met offshore, including from the oil, gas, wind and carbon storage sectors. 

For more information on licencing and consents go to our regulatory information section

Licencing Consents