The chief executive of EDF Energy has added his voice to a growing chorus of renewable energy leaders supporting approval of new oil and gas extraction projects in the North Sea. Simone Rossi characterized the development of the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields as a logical step that would complement—rather than undermine—the country’s climate commitments. He argued that transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency would require decades and that domestically produced resources should be utilized during this extended transition period rather than relying on imports.
Rossi highlighted several potential benefits of expanding North Sea production, including job creation and increased government tax revenues that could be directed toward assisting households with energy costs. He also contended that locally extracted fossil fuels generate lower emissions than imported alternatives due to reduced transportation requirements. He acknowledged that ultimately achieving emissions reductions would depend on decreasing fossil fuel consumption at the end-use level, with electricity serving as the long-term solution.
EDF Energy, which generates approximately one-fifth of the UK’s low-carbon electricity through nuclear and renewable sources, is not alone in this position. Other prominent figures in the energy and climate sectors—including the founder of Octopus Energy, the former head of GB Energy, and the chief of RenewableUK—have similarly advocated for additional North Sea development. Political support spans across party lines, with backing from figures including the former chancellor, defense secretary, and leaders of major trade unions.
The government is expected to make a decision on the two projects within weeks. Both Rosebank and Jackdaw already hold licenses granted under the previous Conservative administration, allowing for approval without conflicting with the current government’s election manifesto, which prohibits new exploration licenses but permits development in already-licensed areas. Environmental groups and the Green Party leader have urged rejection of the projects, citing recent climate impacts and price volatility concerns. The decision has reportedly been timed around a forthcoming byelection.
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