OEUK news

Offshore energy industry needs a national energy debate which moves from what we just stop to what we must start

4 September 2023

Speaking ahead of Offshore Europe week in Aberdeen, OEUK chief executive David Whitehouse has encouraged politicians and policy makers to use the major conference and exhibition to learn more about how its homegrown sector can help tackle key challenges facing the country.

The leading representative body for the sector will hold a number of events at the conference, including the launch of its annual Economic Report. Ahead of the conference opening, Mr Whitehouse said the long-term signals from politicians remain a key factor in the consideration of any deal activity by companies looking to invest in UK energy production.

The event kicks off after MPs return to the House of Commons today after summer recess, with the third reading of the Energy Bill to be considered on Tuesday.

David Whitehouse said:

“Offshore Europe provides a key opportunity for engagement and discussion at a pivotal time for the sector.

“The skills and talent of the UK offshore energy industry reach every corner of the world and Offshore Europe will shine a light on how this continues to benefit jobs and the economy across the country. While this is an export capability we must continue to shout from the rooftops, the reality is that there is more we must do to unlock homegrown energy production here in the UK.

“We must re-frame our national debate about energy from what we just stop to what we must start. I hope politicians and policy makers take the opportunity to hear first-hand from companies pioneering the technologies and collaborative approaches which can help tackle national challenges securing affordable, reliable and increasingly low carbon energy. The UK’s offshore energy sector is expanding its skills and has plans and solutions which can deliver this shared future at pace.

“Later this week our Economic Report will set out in detail how the governments can make the most of its domestic talent to produce energy which grows the economy, supports jobs, and cuts emissions in the UK, for the UK.

“The long-term signals from politicians remain key factors in the consideration of any activity by companies looking to invest in UK energy production. With hundreds of member companies exhibiting, Offshore Europe remains a key opportunity to make connections, spur activity and unlock jobs and economic growth which could benefit the whole for the UK.”


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