She believes with the right support, the UK will be the “global leader” in the critical areas of the future, such as emissions reduction, clean energy and low carbon technologies.
In March 2021, the UK Government and UK oil and gas industry agreed the North Sea Transition Deal to harness the sector’s 50 years of energy expertise and meet the target of net zero emissions by 2050.
Highlighting the deal as being the cornerstone of this exportable growth sector for the country, Michie, says it “will spark an acceleration in low-carbon activities, delivered right here on our doorstep in the UK”.
The North Sea Transition Deal will accelerate the green energy transition and create a new generation of jobs in communities across the UK’s heartlands. Key commitments include reducing emissions by 10% by 2025, 25% by 2027, 50% by 2030 before net zero by 2050.
Michie says to reduce carbon emissions over the years ahead, the UK must “unlock investments and the engineering expertise we need to get there faster”.
She adds there must be support for the hundreds of companies across the supply chain who have sharpened their skills in the oil and gas sector and now work across the energy industry.
OGUK sustainability director Mike Tholen, believes the UK is well-equipped to face the “energy revolution”. He adds: “We are making good progress and work has not stopped despite the impact of Covid-19.
"Building on our North Sea experience, combining innovation, technology and investment and the people and skills of our supply chain speaks to an exciting future, a low carbon future and yes indeed a zero-carbon future.”
