We recognise that with time moving to clean energy improves the UK’s overall energy security. However, as fossil fuels are to continue to form part of the UK’s energy mix for decades to come, there are compelling arguments to meet as much of that need as possible from domestic sources. Easing the gradient of production decline means higher economic returns, lower emissions, and anchors jobs and skills in the northeast of Scotland, which will be necessary for the rapid growth of clean energy s...

We recognise that with time moving to clean energy improves the UK’s overall energy security. However, as fossil fuels are to continue to form part of the UK’s energy mix for decades to come, there are compelling arguments to meet as much of that need as possible from domestic sources. Easing the gradient of production decline means higher economic returns, lower emissions, and anchors jobs and skills in the northeast of Scotland, which will be necessary for the rapid growth of clean energy sectors. (Conclusion, Paragraph 54) 55 Type: conclusion | Number: 3 | Response status: partially_accepted Government response: The North Sea basin is highly mature. Oil and gas production has seen a natural decline of 75% between 1999 and 2024. As a result, the industry has lost around a third of its direct workforce over the last decade. This is why we are planning for the North Sea’s energy future, to ensure that the peop