UK energy leaders push for more North Sea drilling to cut import costs
Industry leaders are calling for more North Sea oil and gas drilling to secure Britain's energy future. RenewableUK's chief executive, Tara Singh, has urged Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to expand domestic production, arguing it would reduce reliance on costly imports. Her comments come as ministers prepare for a potential wider bailout if energy prices remain high beyond June.
Singh stressed that while renewables remain the best long-term solution, Britain will still need oil and gas for the 'foreseeable future'. She warned that importing more fuel would often be worse for both prices and security than producing it at home. Her stance aligns with Greg Jackson, head of Octopus Energy, who also backs increased North Sea extraction to 'use what's available'.
Since July 2023, the government has already awarded 24 new exploration licences—20 through the 33rd licensing round in October 2023 and four more in the 32nd round. Yet a parliamentary report claims Labour's ban on new drilling could cost Britain around five billion barrels of untapped oil and gas. Singh also supports keeping nuclear power in the energy mix to strengthen supply over time. Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has announced £50 million in aid for families struggling with soaring heating oil costs, which fall outside the current price cap. Ministers are now drafting plans for a broader bailout if energy prices stay high when the existing cap ends in June. Singh argues that boosting homegrown energy would make Britain 'stronger, safer and less exposed' to future price shocks.
The push for more North Sea drilling comes as the government weighs options to shield households from rising costs. With new licences already issued and industry figures backing domestic production, the debate over energy security is set to continue. The outcome will shape Britain's approach to both fossil fuels and renewables in the years ahead.
