UK approves Jackdaw gas field off Scottish coast

Summarised from 2 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 21 Oct, 10:20 · Archive

The UK Government has approved the Jackdaw gas field development, located 150 miles off Aberdeen.

The UK Government has approved the Jackdaw gas field development, ending months of speculation about the project. The field is located 150 miles off the coast of Aberdeen.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney said the announcement would "provide some certainty for the north east after many years of difficulty thanks to UK Government policy". He added that the decision must also drive forward Scotland's clean energy ambitions. He stated that climate compatibility tests must have formed the basis of the UK Government's decision, alongside recognition that carbon emissions from the field would be lower than from imports.

The Scottish Government's position on oil and gas has shifted under Mr Swinney from his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon's presumption against new development to a softer approach. The Government has not yet published a finalised energy strategy confirming this shift, with reports suggesting the document could be released as late as 2027.

Offshore industry groups have called for the approval, citing economic and energy security benefits. Environmental groups, however, argue there is no case for new drilling if climate commitments are to be met.

How it is being reported

• Jackdaw announcement must provide certainty to north east, says SwinneyThe decision to approve Jackdaw was made on Wednesday.Independent Business · 21 Oct, 11:03
• Jackdaw announcement must provide certainty to north east, says SwinneyThe decision to approve Jackdaw was made on Wednesday.Evening Standard · 21 Oct, 10:43
• Jackdaw announcement must provide certainty to north east, says SwinneyThe decision to approve Jackdaw was made on Wednesday.Evening Standard · 21 Oct, 09:54
• Jackdaw announcement must provide certainty to north east, says SwinneyThe decision to approve Jackdaw was made on Wednesday.Independent Business · 21 Oct, 09:54

In this story: Jackdaw · Aberdeen · Scotland · John Swinney · Nicola Sturgeon · UK Government

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