NSTA launches investigation into flaring and venting

Article summary

The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) has launched an investigation into an oil and gas company for flaring and venting within the North Sea without permission. The NSTA notes that compliance with consent is an indicator of good management of fields by licensees and a vital pillar of an organisation's social licence to operate, and emphasises that this investigation could result in a potential fine being imposed and/or licence revocation. The NSTA states that flaring and venting contributed to 26% of emissions from oil and gas production activities across the UK North Sea between 2018 and 2020, and reducing such emissions would help to meet targets agreed in the North Sea Transition Deal and lower gas waste.