Overview
- The Energy Department said Friday that reports of Ed Miliband approving the Jackdaw gas field were unfounded and that no decision has been taken.
- Jackdaw is being reassessed by the Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning under updated rules that require counting emissions from burning the gas, and the regulator has asked the developer for more information.
- Multiple outlets reported Miliband is minded to approve Jackdaw, yet sources say he still opposes the larger Rosebank oil project.
- Keir Starmer has said the licensing choice is legally the Energy Secretary’s to make, even as pressure grows from industry, unions, and political figures for new North Sea approvals.
- Industry estimates say Jackdaw could supply gas for roughly one to 1.4 million homes at peak production, though campaigners argue it would do little to cut bills and vow to challenge new licences.