The chief executive of EDF Energy has become the latest prominent figure in the renewables sector to advocate for approving additional North Sea oil and gas developments, characterizing the projects as economically and environmentally sound policy decisions.
Simone Rossi stated that the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields should receive government authorization while the country simultaneously accelerates its transition to alternative energy sources like heat pumps and electric vehicles. He emphasized that transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency requires many years and that using domestically produced resources during this period is preferable to importing them from distant locations. Rossi noted that locally sourced hydrocarbons generate lower emissions than imports because they avoid lengthy transportation distances. He also suggested that new North Sea operations would create employment opportunities and generate tax revenue that could support households facing energy affordability challenges.
Rossi joins a growing coalition of energy sector leaders, including figures such as Greg Jackson of Octopus Energy, Jürgen Maier formerly of GB Energy, and Tara Singh of RenewableUK, in supporting expanded North Sea production. Several political figures have similarly expressed backing for the projects, ranging from former Chancellor Rachel Reeves to Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey and leaders of major trade unions. This cross-party support aligns with Labour’s election platform, which permits new oil and gas development from already licensed areas or adjacent fields utilizing existing infrastructure, though it ruled out new exploration licenses.
Environmental organizations and Green Party leader Zack Polanski have campaigned against final approval of the two projects, citing recent climate-driven heatwaves and energy market volatility. The government is anticipated to make its decision within weeks, with the announcement potentially delayed past an upcoming byelection. Both projects previously received licenses under the prior administration and have undergone resubmission following a court determination that climate impact assessments required additional detail.
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