Energy secretary leaning towards rejecting Rosebank oilfield
News Source
β’Wed, 21 Oct 2026 17:15:23 GMT
π° What Happened
The UK energy secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, is leaning towards blocking the Rosebank oilfield, according to reports. That would be a big win for climate campaigners and a blow to the North Sea industry.
The news came a day after she approved the smaller Jackdaw gasfield. Fahnbulleh said Jackdaw supplies gas for UK homes, while Rosebank is an oilfield mainly for export. A final decision is expected before the end of the year.
π The Backstory
Rosebank is one of the biggest undeveloped oilfields in UK waters. Officials say it would produce about seven times the emissions of Jackdaw. The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, could overrule his energy secretary if ministers disagree.
Labour MPs from Scotland want the jobs and investment. Others, especially those facing Green Party challenges, say approving Rosebank would break climate promises. The Chancellor has hinted he expects new oil and gas money.
π― Why It Matters
This decision affects UK energy bills, jobs and climate promises. It also tests whether a new government keeps its green plans when money is tight.
The UK energy secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, is leaning towards blocking the Rosebank oilfield, according to reports. That would be a big win for climate campaigners and a blow to the North Sea industry.
The news came a day after she approved the smaller Jackdaw gasfield. Fahnbulleh said Jackdaw supplies gas for UK homes, while Rosebank is an oilfield mainly for export. A final decision is expected before the end of the year.
Rosebank is one of the biggest undeveloped oilfields in UK waters. Officials say it would produce about seven times the emissions of Jackdaw. The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, could overrule his energy secretary if ministers disagree.
Labour MPs from Scotland want the jobs and investment. Others, especially those facing Green Party challenges, say approving Rosebank would break climate promises. The Chancellor has hinted he expects new oil and gas money.
This decision affects UK energy bills, jobs and climate promises. It also tests whether a new government keeps its green plans when money is tight.