Today, 1 August 2023, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with Nouveau Riche Productions. The partnership aims to understand how to address barriers to participation for Black and/or Global Majority artists at the Fringe.
The partnership will initially last six months and will focus on the shared ambitions of Nouveau Riche and the Fringe Society in providing support, resources and signposting for under-represented artists who face barriers to participation, and/or experience unsafe working environments, when taking part in the Fringe – specifically artists who identify as Black and/or Global Majority.
Nouveau Riche will build and manage a network for Fringe participants who identify as Black and/or Global Majority and will collaborate with the Fringe Society on providing resources and events, as well as informing the development of their support services.
Following the 2023 Fringe, Nouveau Riche will gather feedback from this year’s artists of colour along with industry professionals with long-term Fringe experience, to ensure Black and/or Global Majority Fringe experiences are fully heard, and to inform future planning for development of this partnership and associated longer-term services.
Chris Snow, Head of Artist Services at the Fringe Society, said: ‘There has historically been limited support available for Black and/or Global Majority artists taking part in Fringe, and the Fringe Society acknowledges that this needs to change.
“Nouveau Riche are an established and experienced theatre company working with and supporting emerging artists of colour at the Fringe, and across the UK. For real change to happen, it is vital that the Fringe Society, venues and producers work with partners like Nouveau Riche, to understand how we can all support the festival to become more inclusive and accessible for artists facing barriers to taking part.
“In this first year of partnership, Nouveau Riche are building a network of Fringe artists of colour to help us consult, understand existing challenges, and establish plans for ongoing support.
“The Nouveau Riche team are also working with us on resources and events and are developing post-festival evaluation plans to inform our ongoing work. It is incredibly exciting to be working with them on this, and we hope it’s the beginning of a long-term partnership.”
Sarah Verghese, Senior Producer at Nouveau Riche,said: ‘Last year, Nouveau Riche published a Call to Action after our experiences at Edinburgh Fringe over the last five years.
“We are a one of the few Black-led companies who head to the festival consistently and this is because there is little to no support for our communities. I was delighted when the Fringe Society contacted us about a possible partnership to support the well-being and welfare of artists of colour heading to the festival.
“This year, Nouveau Riche is not producing a show at Edinburgh Fringe – instead we are delivering resources, wrap-around activity, events, drop-in and feedback sessions.
“It’s important that we are listening to our communities and their experiences to shape the festival into a welcoming, safe and inclusive place for us. Fringe of Colour has been a pioneer in this work by creating databases and sharing resources for artists of colour and we are so proud that they are no longer alone in their efforts to make Fringe a safe space for our communities.’
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is taking place from 4 – 28 August 2023.
More information about the programme and tickets can be found at edfringe.com.
Ben Macpherson, MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith was welcomed by Barratt Developments to its Merchant Quay development on Friday (28 July) in celebration of its site manager’s Pride in the Job Quality Award win.
James O’Neill, site manager at Merchant Quay recently received the Pride in the Job Quality Award, known as the “Oscars of the housebuilding industry” from the National House Building Council (NHBC) setting them apart as one of the very best in the country.
This year, a total of 19 site managers from Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, took home a top national award for the quality of the homes they are building – the most ever received by the housebuilder in Scotland.
Ben Macpherson MSP visited Merchant Quay and was given a tour of the development by award-winner James and Nick Wright, Development Director for Barratt Developments East Scotland.
Located in the bustling heart of Leith, Merchant Quay has an array of one, two and three-bedroom apartments. Close to a range of cafes and shops, the development is a short distance to the city centre by bus or foot.
Nick Wright, Development Director for Barratt Developments East Scotland, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Ben Macpherson MSP to Merchant Quay and to demonstrate the quality which we are building across all tenures in his constituency.
“The Pride in the Job awards acknowledge the work we’re doing to showcase our commitment in building the highest standard of homes in Edinburgh and across Scotland, with our elite site managers demonstrating our award-winning customer care.”
Ben Macpherson said:“I was glad to visit the development at Merchant Quay and meet some of those involved in the project. As well as private housing, in partnership with local housing association Harbour, 53 high quality, warm affordable homes, of which 43 are for social rent, have been delivered.
“I was pleased to see that this affordable housing has been built as a priority and is already occupied and to learn that more affordable housing units will be delivered as part of the next phases of the development.
“It was interesting to learn how some of Leith’s industrial heritage has been preserved in the communal areas of the development, as many will know the area was previously a glassworks.
“It was also good to meet site manager James O’Neill, and personally congratulate him on his award, as well as hear directly from some apprentices who have been able to further develop their skills while working on the project.”
In addition to the recent Pride in the Job award wins, Barratt Developments has also been awarded 5 stars by its customers for satisfaction in the annual Home Builders Federation (HBF) new homes survey.
To be rated 5 star means that more than 90% of its customers would recommend one of its homes to a friend, with Barratt being the only major national housebuilder to be rated 5 star for 14 years in a row.
Find out more: If you would like to pay a visit to Merchant Quay and explore the Restalrig or Argyll show homes, find out more here.
Almost 8 million people have been overlooked during the cost of living crisis and are now on the brink of serious hardship, Which? is warning.
It comes as new research by the consumer champion identifies 15 per cent of the UK population who are more likely to have turned to credit and buy now pay later schemes (BNPL) during the crisis. These people are at risk of significant financial and mental harm in the months and years ahead as interest rates continue to rise.
Which? surveyed 4,000 people across the UK to find out how different groups of consumers are coping – financially, physically and mentally – with the cost of living crisis. The research highlights that while the vast majority of consumers have been affected by the cost of living crisis, this pain is not felt equally.
The study identified six distinct groups of consumers who are experiencing the cost of living crisis in different ways. These groups are: ‘Drained and Desperate’, ‘Anxious and At Risk’, ‘Cut Off By Cut Backs’, ‘Fretting About the Future’, ‘Looking out for Loved Ones’ and ‘Affluent and Apathetic’.
While much of the government and policymakers’ focus has rightly been on supporting the ‘Drained and Desperate’ group – who are more likely to have household incomes of less than £20,000 and have already had to make severe financial cutbacks, such as skipping meals and not turning on the heating.
Outside of any universal support available like the government’s support for energy bills, this ‘Anxious and At Risk’ category has been largely overlooked.
The ‘Anxious and At Risk’ group contains 7.9 million adults – 15 per cent of the UK population. They tend to be from larger households with children at home and are struggling financially but have just managed to keep afloat by using credit.
However, unlike the ‘Drained and Desperate’ group, they are much more likely to have borrowed money to maintain basic living standards than to have cut back on essentials, such as food and energy.
Six in ten (59%) have increased their debt in the last six months – the highest amongst all groups.They are also more than twice as likely (36%) as the UK population (14%) to have used buy now pay later schemes.
With interest rates continuing to rise, it is only a matter of time before this group is unable to keep up this cycle of borrowing and fall into financial difficulty.
One woman from northern England in this ‘Anxious and At Risk’ group said: “I have to use credit to make ends meet and I worry about debt. I have no safety net for emergencies and I will have to work past state pension age.”
Four in 10 (38%) of this group have a mortgage or loan on their home and worryingly, one fifth (21%) of those with a mortgage are on a variable tracker mortgage – meaning their rates are hiked every time the Bank of England base rate rises.
The Bank of England has raised interest rates significantly in the last year in attempts to combat inflation, meaning those on fixed-rate mortgages who are remortgaging this year will also be faced with massive hikes to their mortgage payments. This could be a major tipping point for ‘Anxious and At Risk’ households.
It is also hugely concerning that millions are heavily relying on Buy Now Pay Later schemes. Previous Which? research shows that many BNPL users do not realise they are taking on debt or consider the prospect of missing payments.
The government must not delay plans to introduce changes to the BNPL industry and ensure that consumers are given stronger safeguards to protect them. This needs to include greater marketing transparency, information about the risks of missed payments and consumer credit checks.
At such a difficult financial time, businesses must also do everything in their power to ease pressures on household budgets. Which? is calling on essential businesses – energy firms, broadband providers and supermarkets – to do more to help their customers and ensure they are providing value for money.
For example, supermarkets need to make budget line items that support a healthy diet widely available – particularly in convenience stores.
Telecoms firms must cancel future mid-contract price hikes and energy firms need to ensure their customer service departments are fully staffed and able to support any customers who are struggling to make ends meet.
Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “Our research reveals that almost eight million people have been left balancing on a financial knife-edge.
“Until now, the government and policymakers have rightly focused on supporting the millions who are already failing to make ends meet, but this ‘Anxious and At Risk’ group is a ticking time bomb.
They are far more likely to have relied on borrowing to make ends meet but with interest rates continuing to rise, it’s only a matter of time before they find themselves facing serious hardship.
“The government must help those most in need by tightening regulation on buy now pay later to stop unaffordable lending and ensuring essential businesses are doing everything in their power to ease pressures on household finances.”
Do you need help to deal with your debt? Granton Information Centre can help: call 0131 551 2459, 0131 552 0458 or email info@gic.org.uk
FRIENDS of Granton Castle Walled Garden are excited to announce that the garden will be open to visitors on a Friday from 2-4pm as well as our regular sessions on Saturday and Sunday at 2-4pm.
Volunteer sessions remain on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11am-3pm, more information about volunteering for us is on our website.
The purpose of this new opening time is to come along and pick up some produce from our kitchen garden which changes weekly. A chance to see where it’s grown and to meet the growers, donations are appreciated but fresh produce is available for all.
Herbs:
We have plenty of sage, rosemary, mint, lemon balm, calendula, borage, oregano and thyme and many more medicinal herbs.
Produce:
Currently carrots, courgettes, cucumbers, Cavolo Nero, Sutherland kale, blue kale (almost ready), rocket, beetroots, onions, potatoes and garlic.
Fresh flowers:
Sweet peas to be picked and various wild flowers for a little posy.
We can’t always guarantee that the produce you need is ready to harvest on the day but keep an eye on our social media for up to date stories about what’s in season and ready to pick up.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is working with the RNLI to test the use of a new Emergency Response Drone Pilot rescue service which they have developed with Eagle Eye Innovations (EEI).
The drones, manufactured by Swell Pro, are waterproof and capable of improving observation of people in the water, broadcasting pre-recorded and live messages via a Tannoy system, and have the potential to deploy lifesaving items such as inflatable buoys.
To test the use of the drones as part of an operational lifeguard service, the RLSS UK is working with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), to trial their use at Crantock Beach in Newquay.
Peter Dawes, RNLI Lifeguard Operations Manager, said, “The River Gannel that runs through the middle of Crantock Beach and, particularly at low tide, makes access across the broad expanse of beach and to the water’s edge difficult for our patrol vehicles.
“The drone will allow the lifeguards to undertake rapid observations across a wide area, and the integrated speaker system allows the lifeguards to help inform and give proactive safety advice to the public.
“RNLI lifeguards play a vital role in keeping the public safe when they are visiting the beach. We welcome the opportunity to be part of the RLSS UK’s trial and help them develop this lifesaving equipment within an operational beach set-up.”
Robert Gofton, CEO at RLSS UK said, “We are excited to see how this trial develops drones becoming a piece of equipment to support the lifeguards of the future.
“Drones have been around for a while, and we are constantly looking for ways to use their capabilities in helping to keep people safe on our very busy beaches.”
Tim Mitchell, Head of Academy for EEI, said, “As one of the UK’s leading drone training organisations, it was a natural fit to build a training programme with the Royal Life Saving Society UK which is the leader in beach lifeguard training.
“Working with the RNLI will give a real opportunity to see how the capabilities of the drone can help meet the RNLI’s mission of saving lives at sea.”
Owners of short-term let properties are being urged to apply for a licence under Scotland’s short-term licensing scheme before the 1 October 2023 deadline.
Short-term let hosts must apply for a licence with their relevant local authority before the deadline. Anyone who operated a short-term let before 1 October 2022 can still accept bookings and guests until an application is determined, but must apply before the 1 October 2023 deadline. Owners who started operations after 1 October 2022 cannot begin trading until they receive their licence.
Hosts must apply for a licence with the local authority their property is located and are being urged to check local criteria before making an application.
Local councils’ licensing schemes are in operation across Scotland and many short-term let hosts have already obtained licences.
Housing Minister Paul McLennan said: “Short-term let accommodation plays an important role in Scotland’s economy, supporting our tourism and hospitality sector and allowing tourists and holiday goers somewhere to take them closer to the best that Scotland can offer.
“However, it is also important that there is appropriate regulation in place to ensure the safety of guests, and so that local authorities can make decisions that are right for their local areas. That is why the Scottish Government has introduced the short-term lets licensing scheme.
“I would like to thank those who have already signed up to the scheme, bringing assurances to tourists that their safety is paramount and that they have met local guidelines.
“Visitors coming to Scotland can already expect to see the benefits of properties being licensed and meeting specific standards. Meanwhile, the thousands of short-term let operators who provide a quality service can have the assurance that would-be competitors have to meet licensing standards as well.
“There is only two months to go until the 1 October deadline and so I would urge anyone who owns short-term let accommodation and has yet to apply to do so as soon as possible to ensure you can still take bookings and welcome guests from far and wide.”
Short Stay St Andrews Director Jordan Mitchell said: “As the largest holiday letting agency in St Andrews and the East Neuk, the initial thought of an application process for short-term letting our 130+ managed properties was a daunting one.
“However, the application process has been plain sailing once we had all the required safety certification in place.
“Fife Council has been extremely supportive in its quest to process the applications despite the extra pressure on its systems.
“I can only recommend applying as soon as possible to give your business plenty of time to adjust to the new Scottish Government requirements.”
Owners have until 1 October 2023 to apply for a short-term lets licence, with local authorities required to process applications by 1 October 2024.
Tax paid on pints and other drinks on tap in over 38,000 UK pubs is now up to 11p cheaper than their supermarket equivalents
The new Brexit Pubs Guarantee will keep it this way for good
Alcohol duty now simplified so drinks are taxed by strength, lowering duty on supermarket shelves for many UK favourites including bottles of pale ale, pre-mixed gin and tonic, and prosecco
Over 38,000 UK pubs and bars have seen a tax cut on the pints they pull from today as the government’s alcohol duty changes take effect.
The duty paid on drinks on tap in pubs will be up to 11p lower than at the supermarket. The changes are designed to help pubs compete on a level playing field with supermarkets, so they can continue to thrive at the heart of communities across the UK. The Brexit Pubs Guarantee announced in the Chancellor’s Spring Budget secures the pledge that pubs will always pay less alcohol duty than supermarkets going forwards.
It comes as other landmark changes to the alcohol duty system also come into effect today, which see drinks taxed by strength for the first time and a new relief – named Small Producer Relief – to help small businesses and start-ups create new drinks, innovate and grow.
Today’s changes have automatically lowered the duty in shops and supermarkets on many of the UK’s favourites including certain bottles of pale ale, pre-mixed gin and tonic, hard seltzer, Irish cream, coffee liquor and English sparkling wine, amongst others.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “I want to support the drinks and hospitality industries that are helping to grow the economy, and the consumers who enjoy the end result.
“Not only will today’s changes mean that that the price of your pint in the pub is protected, but it will also benefit thousands of businesses across the country.
“We have taken advantage of Brexit to simplify the duty system, to reduce the price of a pint, and to back British pubs.”
Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said: “British pubs are the beating heart of our communities and as they face rising costs, we’re doing all we can to help them out. Through our Brexit Pubs Guarantee, we’re protecting the price of a pint.
“The changes we’re making to the way we tax alcohol catapults us into the 21st century, reflecting the popularity of low alcohol drinks and boosting growth in the sector by supporting small producers financially.”
The three alcohol duty changes that have taken effect today are only possible thanks to the UK’s departure from the EU and the guarantees set out in the Windsor Framework.
The previous duty system was complex and unfair but now that the UK is free to set excise policy to suit its needs, the government has brought about common-sense reforms in order to support wider UK tax and public health objectives.
Brexit Pubs Guarantee
Over 38,000 UK pubs will benefit from lower alcohol tax on the drinks they pour from tap from today. This is because the government has expanded Draught Relief, which effectively freezes or cuts the alcohol duty on the vast majority of these drinks. This is to protect pubs, who are often undercut by supermarket competitors.
It means that the duty they pay on each drink poured from draught, such as pints of beer and cider, will be up to 11p cheaper than in supermarkets. The government has pledged that the duty pubs and bars pay on these drinks will always be less than retailers, known as the Brexit Pubs Guarantee.
This tax reduction is part of a wider shake up of the alcohol duty system which also comes into effect from today – the biggest in 140 years.
A simpler, more modern alcohol duty system
The alcohol duty reforms were announced at the Autumn Budget in 2021. The reforms pledged to modernise and simplify a duty system that had not been changed in 140 years, only possible as the UK has left the EU.
The key changes are:
All products taxed in line with alcohol by volume (ABV) strength, rather than different duty structures for different drinks
Fewer main duty rates, from 15 to 6, to make it easier for businesses to grow and operate
There will be lower taxes on lower alcohol products – those below 3.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) in strength – a huge growth area in the drinks industry
All drinks above 8.5% ABV will pay the same rate regardless of product type This will mean that many UK favourites will see duty reductions. Irish cream will drop by 3p, cans of 5% ABV ready-to-drink spirit mixers by 6p, Prosecco by 61p and 500ml 3.4% pale ale by 20p a bottle.
New tax relief to encourage small producers to make new drinks
The UK alcoholic drinks market reached just under £50 billion in 2022, up 6% year on year and is expected to continue to grow – sales are forecast to reach £60.9 billion in 2026. The UK government is laser-focused on continuing this burgeoning success.
The government is introducing Small Producer Relief effective from today, which replaces and extends the previous Small Brewers Relief scheme.
This allows small businesses who produce alcoholic products with an ABV of less than 8.5% to be eligible for reduced rates of alcohol duty on qualifying products.
The new tax relief scheme promotes innovation in the drinks sector, giving small producers the financial freedom to experiment with new types of drink and grow their business. It also supports the modern drinking trend of lower alcohol beverages.
Business School recognised by prestigious organisation
Edinburgh Napier University has earned business accreditation from AACSB International, the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools.
The accolade, which recognises ENU’s Business School for excelling in teaching, research, curriculum development, and student learning, is held by less than six per cent of global institutions that offer business degrees.
Founded in 1916, AACSB is a global non-profit association that connects learners, educators, and businesses worldwide. To gain accreditation, The Business School successfully completed a rigorous review process conducted by business education peers.
ENU now joins a network of nearly 1,000 accredited institutions, including more than 40 in the UK.
Professor Christine Cross, Dean of The Business School, said:“AACSB international is a globally recognised benchmark for business education excellence and obtaining this accreditation is a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing high-quality education and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
“Through rigorous evaluation of our academic programmes, faculty qualifications, research initiatives and student outcomes AACSB accreditation reaffirms that Edinburgh Napier University is at the forefront of business education.
“As we celebrate this achievement we also reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment that equips our students with the skills and the mindset necessary to address the challenges of the business world with empathy, integrity and resilience.
“Looking ahead Edinburgh Napier University will continue to push boundaries and maintain the highest standards of education, research and community engagement.”
Stephanie M. Bryant, executive vice president and chief accreditation officer of AACSB, said: “Edinburgh Napier University’s commitment to earning accreditation is a true reflection of their dedication—not only to their students, alumni network, and greater business community, but to the higher education industry as a whole.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s business leaders, and the addition of the Edinburgh Napier University to the network of AACSB-accredited business schools will have a lasting positive impact for their institution, both locally and globally.
“We congratulate Edinburgh Napier University and Dean Christine Cross on earning accreditation and applaud the entire team—including the administration, faculty, staff, and students—for their roles in earning this respected honour.”
The two alcohol-free companies collaborate for the first-time to create the ‘WilMore Spritz’, a refreshing alternative spritz cocktail with notes of ginger, grapefruit and rosemary – all the complexity of the perfect spritz, but without the alcohol
In celebration of National Spritz Day on 1st August, Edinburgh’s Talonmore is teaming-up with Wilfred’s for the first-time to create a limited-edition non-alcoholic spritz cocktail, the ‘WilMore Spritz’.
On Talonmore’s website, the companies are offering a special bundle deal with 20% off both brands for consumers to purchase the bottles and make the delicious spritz cocktail at-home.
Talonmore’s distinctive taste is fired by the spice of ginger and Assam tea whilst complemented with malty notes and fruit sweetness. Pairing with Wilfred’s complex bittersweet orange & rosemary aperitif, the ‘WilMore Spritz’ offers an exquisitely crafted, impeccably refreshing non-alcoholic spritz.
‘WILMORE SPRITZ’ – Fill a large wine glass with plenty of ice – Add 50ml – Wilfred’s NA Aperitif, then 50ml – Talonmore NA Spirit – Add a dash of Premium Light Tonic Water (100ml) and stir briefly – Garnish with Grapefruit & Rosemary
The popularity of the spritz serve has swept the nation, with CGA data reporting that 78% of consumers would choose a spritz serve at least occasionally. The spritz is a longer drink, meaning it can be consumed over a greater period of time, confirming the narrative of cocktail lovers wanting less, yet more premium drinks.
Talonmore is a Scottish based, family run business established in Edinburgh in 2020. The latest batch of Talonmore includes a brand-new look & feel, with an upgraded label and eye-catching flagship red foil.
Using a mix of rooted and plant-based ingredients and inspired by Edinburgh’s festival spirit and history of innovation, Talonmore was created to provide an exceptional alcohol-free drink that can be enjoyed without compromising health, control and taste.
Choosing brewing methods of manufacture, rather than distilling, Talonmore have developed a unique beverage that ensures flavour is at the forefront, replicating the experience of drinking a dark spirit.
Talonmore can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a mixer or in a multitude of non-alcoholic cocktails such as the WilMore Spritz. In 2022, Talonmore was awarded Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition scoring an impressive 92 points out of 100.
Wilfred’s was created by founder Chris Wilfred Hughes after being increasingly frustrated by the uninspired, overly sweet and usually unhealthy non-alcoholic options available, both at home and when out.
Aiming to reinvent the spritz, he decided flavour, quality and complexity were of the utmost importance. Inspired by travels around the world his journey eventually led him back home to the authentic flavours he associates most with London – freshly picked rosemary from his mother’s garden, and the bitter oranges in his father’s homemade marmalade.
Made in Britain with natural botanicals, 0% alcohol and only 20 calories per serving, Wilfred’s aperitif pairs impeccably with Talonmore and premium tonic water to create the refreshing ‘WilMore Spritz’.
Lewis Kennedy, Managing Director at Talonmore Drinks Company, said: “Talonmore has admired Wilfred’s for some time now. We always thought the flavours of both brands would work perfectly together. After an exciting chat with Chris and a delicious spritz sampling session, we were absolutely right.
“We only see the popularity of alcohol-free serves getting more and more popular. Talonmore is all about offering choice and versatility and with National Spritz Day coming up, what a perfect opportunity to partner with another forward-thinking alcohol-free brand to create the ‘WilMore Spritz’. We hope this will become a household serve for alcohol-free fans this summer, and many summers to come.
“The ‘WilMore Spritz’ offers the perfect serve for all day summer fun. Enjoying the sun in style, with a mix of refreshing notes of ginger, grapefruit and rosemary – a gorgeously refreshing and complex spritz, just without the alcohol.”
With over 8 million adults in the UK looking to reduce their alcohol intake, Talonmore is designed to shake up the non-alcoholic drinks market through championing the adventurous lifestyle that could normally be sacrificed with traditional alcohol.
Hundreds of new oil and gas licenses will be granted in the UK, PM confirms
Prime Minister commits to future oil and gas licensing rounds, as new analysis shows domestic gas production has around one-quarter the carbon footprint of imported liquified natural gas
North East Scotland and the Humber chosen as locations for two new carbon capture usage and storage clusters – building a thriving clean industry in the North Sea which could support up to 50,000 jobs
Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence
Hundreds of new oil and gas licences will be granted in the UK, the Prime Minister has confirmed today (Monday 31 July), as the UK Government continues to back the North Sea oil and gas industry as part of drive to make Britain more energy independent.
The Government and the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) are today announcing a joint commitment to undertake future licensing rounds, which will continue to be subject to a climate compatibility test.
By adopting a more flexible application process, licences could also be offered near to currently licensed areas – unlocking vital reserves which can be brought online faster due to existing infrastructure and previous relevant assessments.
With the independent Climate Change Committee predicting around a quarter of the UK’s energy demand will still be met by oil and gas when the UK reaches net zero in 2050, the Government is taking steps to slow the rapid decline in domestic production of oil and gas, which will secure our domestic energy supply and reduce reliance on hostile states.
This will increase the UK’s energy security and reduce dependence on higher-emission imports, whilst protecting more than 200,000 jobs in a vital industry as we grow the UK economy.
As part of a visit to a critical energy infrastructure site in Aberdeenshire today, the Prime Minister will highlight the central role the region will play in strengthening the UK’s energy independence and meet the next generation of skilled apprentices key to driving this work forward.
The NSTA – responsible for regulating the oil, gas and carbon storage industries – is currently running the 33rd offshore oil and gas licensing round. They expect the first of the new licences to be awarded in the autumn, with the round expected to award over 100 licences in total.
Future licences will be critical to providing energy security options, unlocking carbon capture usage and storage and hydrogen opportunities – building truly integrated offshore energy hubs that make the best use of the established infrastructure.
This comes as new analysis released by the NSTA today shows that the carbon footprint of domestic gas production is around one-quarter of the carbon footprint of imported liquified natural gas.
As the UK is a rapidly declining producer of oil and gas, new oil and gas licences reduce the fall in UK supply in order to ensure vital energy security, rather than increase it above current levels – so that the UK remains on track to meet net zero by 2050.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “We have all witnessed how Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy – disrupting supply and stalling growth in countries around the world.
“Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses.
“Even when we’ve reached net zero in 2050, a quarter of our energy needs will come from oil and gas. But there are those who would rather that it come from hostile states than from the supplies we have here at home.
“We’re choosing to power up Britain from Britain and invest in crucial industries such as carbon capture and storage, rather than depend on more carbon intensive gas imports from overseas – which will support thousands of skilled jobs, unlock further opportunities for green technologies and grow the economy.”
The UK’s oil and gas industry are also vital to driving forward and investing in clean technologies that we need to realise our net zero target, like carbon capture usage and storage, by drawing from the sector’s existing supply chains, expertise and key skills whilst protecting jobs.
Today, the Government has confirmed that projects Acorn in North East Scotland and Viking in the Humber have been chosen as the third and fourth carbon capture usage and storage clusters in the UK.
The Government has already committed to deploy CCUS in two industrial clusters by the mid-2020s – the HyNet cluster in North West England and North Wales, and the East Coast Cluster in the Teesside and Humber – and another further two clusters by 2030 – now confirmed as Acorn and Viking.
Together, these four clusters will build a new thriving carbon capture usage and storage industry, which could support up to 50,000 jobs in the UK by 2030.
The UK has one of the largest potential carbon dioxide storage capacities in Europe, making the North Sea one of the most attractive business environments for CCUS technology. The Government has committed to provide up to £20 billion in funding for early deployment of CCUS, unlocking private investment and job creation.
Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said: “In the wake of Putin’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine, our energy security is more important than ever. The North Sea is at the heart of our plan to power up Britain from Britain so that tyrants like Putin can never again use energy as a weapon to blackmail us.
“Today’s commitment to power ahead with new oil and gas licences will drive forward our energy independence and our economy for generations. Protecting critical jobs in every region of the UK, safeguarding energy bills for British families and providing a homegrown fuel for our economy that, for domestic gas production, has around one-quarter the carbon footprint of imported liquified natural gas.
“Our next steps to develop carbon capture and storage, in Scotland and the Humber, will also help to build a thriving new industry for our North Sea that could support as many as 50,000 jobs, as we deliver on our priority of growing the economy.”
The Prime Minister has also tasked the relevant Government departments and regulators to work collaboratively and report back by the end of the year on how we can make the best use of our offshore resources in a truly integrated way as we unlock CCUS and hydrogen opportunities in the North Sea.
A call for evidence has also been launched by Government today, seeking views on the evolving context for taxes for the oil and gas sector to design a long-term fiscal regime which delivers predictability and certainty, supports investment, protects jobs and the country’s energy security.
CAMPAIGNERS FURY OVER NEW LICENSES
‘Rishi Sunak is gleefully encouraging the arsonists to go and put more fuel on the fire‘
Climate campaigners are furious that the Prime Minister is ‘doing the bidding’ of the oil industry after he re-affirmed that the UK Government will issue over 100 new licences for oil and gas exploration this Autumn.
Rishi Sunak also said that the Acorn project was chosen as the third of four carbon capture and storage clusters in the UK. Climate campaigners regard carbon capture and storage (CCS) as an attempt to ‘greenwash’ the oil industry and pointed to the long history of failure of the technology.
Campaigners say that instead of giving more public money to oil firms it should be invested in climate solution that work today and can improve people’s lives such as public transport and home insulation.
Friends of the Earth Scotland head of campaign Mary Church said: “Burning oil and gas is driving extreme weather and killing people on every continent yet Rishi Sunak is gleefully encouraging the arsonists to go and put more fuel on the fire.”
“By ignoring the huge harm caused by fossil fuel company greed and doing bidding of the industry, the UK Government is blatantly in denial about climate breakdown.”
“By committing to future licensing rounds on the same day, it’s clear to see that carbon capture is little more than a greenwashing tactic by big oil to try and keep their climate-wrecking industry in business.”
“CCS has a long history of over-promising and under-delivering yet both the Scottish and UK Governments have fallen for the snake oil salesmen rather than face reality that the only solution to the climate crisis is a fast and fair phase out of oil and gas.
“Funding for the Acorn project is yet another massive public subsidy to oil companies like Shell who have been making billions in profits, while ordinary people are struggling to pay the bills.
“Instead of handing more money to polluters, it is time to redirect that investment to climate solutions that we know can deliver emissions cuts and improve peoples’ lives today – such as improving public transport and insulating people’s homes to help with energy bills.”
Commenting on the UK Government’s citation of analysis showing domestic gas production has a lower carbon footprint than imported gas, Ms Church continued: “It’s pure spin to try to sell more climate wrecking extraction as lower carbon when every nation needs to phase fossil fuels out with rich nations like the UK going first and fastest.
“What’s more, the Prime Minister is comparing apples and pears as most of what’s left in the North Sea is heavy oil, that we don’t even use domestically, not gas, so it has to be exported anyway.”
Unsurprisingly, ‘stakeholder’ comments have been overwhelmingly positive:
David Whitehouse, CEO Offshore Energies UK said: “Domestic production is the best pathway to net zero and the UK Government’s commitment to licences is a welcome boost for energy security and jobs.
“Oil and gas fields decline naturally over time. The UK needs the churn of new licences to manage production decline inline with the maturing basin. There are currently 283 active oil and gas fields in the North Sea, by 2030 around 180 of those will have ceased production due to natural decline. If we do not replace maturing oil and gas fields with new ones, the rate of production will decline much faster than we can replace them with low carbon alternatives.
“Developing our new carbon capture industry and its high-value jobs needs significant investment from our energy producing companies. This means that the bedrock to success and delivering growth in the economy can only be collaboration between private and public capital.
“The UK’s skilled offshore workforce, its engineering expertise and its geology have given our nation a unique opportunity to lead the way in building a net zero world.”
Tom Glover, RWE UK, Country Chair said: “RWE is delighted that Viking CCS has been awarded Track 2 status for the Government’s Cluster Sequencing Process.
“RWE is a long-term cluster partner of Viking CCS and is developing two projects that could use this facility, providing firm, secure and flexible low carbon power generation to support our transition to a net zero economy.”
Will Gardiner, Drax Group CEO, said: “We welcome the Government’s decision to designate Viking as a Track 2 carbon capture utilisation and storage cluster (CCUS). Progressing a CO2 transport and storage network in the Humber represents a significant step toward helping the region meet its Net Zero ambitions and ensuring that it remains a source of high-skilled jobs and energy security for decades to come.
“The announcement shows the importance of CCUS to the Humber and, along with the East Coast Cluster, creates an additional pathway to support our plans for bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) at Drax Power Station.
“We are currently engaged in formal discussions with the UK Government on this project and hope to invest billions in its development and deploy this critical, carbon removals technology by 2030.”
Dr Nick Cooper, CEO of Acorn lead developer Storegga, said: “We are thrilled that the Acorn Project has advanced directly into Track-2. Acorn has been progressed by the development partners as the Track-1 reserve since late 2021 and is ready to move promptly to support the decarbonisation of Scotland and the wider UK.
“Today’s news is a defining milestone for us, and the Scottish Cluster. Acorn will be a major contributor towards meeting the UK and Scotland’s carbon reduction targets, able to serve emitters connected by pipeline and ship.
“As Lead Developer, Storegga thanks Acorn partners and Scottish Cluster participants for their support and we look forward to working with Government to deliver the multiple benefits of creating and future-proofing jobs, bringing inward economic investment, developing green-tech industries and, crucially helping decarbonise Scotland and the UK.”
Harbour Energy’s Executive Vice President of Net Zero and CCS Steve Cox said: The successful award of Track 2 status to Harbour’s Viking CCS project in the Humber as well as Acorn in northeast Scotland is another demonstration of how we are well positioned to use our existing skills and infrastructure to help develop the burgeoning CCS industry in the UK.
“More widely, the announcement today shows the key role the North Sea oil and gas sector will play in helping to deliver the UK’s carbon capture goals.”
Ruth Herbert, Chief Executive at the CCSA, said: “We are pleased to see the UK Government pushing ahead with its CCUS deployment programme and selecting the next two CCUS clusters, as time is running out to meet 2030 targets.
“This CO2 infrastructure is critical to safeguarding the UK’s supply chain security, enabling local industries to continue to thrive whilst reducing their emissions as we transition to a net zero economy.
“It is therefore vital that the Government urgently sets out clarity on the process and timeline for selecting carbon capture sites within these ‘Track-2’ clusters and within the previously announced Track-1 cluster expansion.
Billions of pounds of investment is waiting to be deployed to decarbonise these industrial regions, but firm plans are required to secure it.
“There are a number of other clusters under development across the country, which is why last year we asked government for visibility of the longer-term CCUS deployment plan.
“Collectively, CCUS clusters could protect 77,000 current jobs and create a further 70,000 jobs across the UK. Government’s forthcoming vision for the UK CCUS sector needs to be published as soon as possible, to avoid investment flight in those regions that have not been selected today.”
Simon Roddy, Senior Vice President of Shell UK‘s Upstream business, said: “This is an important step forward for one of the UK’s leading CCS clusters. The Acorn Project is a central part of plans to decarbonise North Sea operations, and to store emissions from other parts of Scottish industry.
“As Technical Developer, we bring Shell’s global experience of CCS and the delivery of major projects. T
“o stimulate investment in this and other CCS clusters, continued co-operation with governments will be key to finding the most innovative approaches and business models to allow CCS to reach the scale needed to help the UK achieve net zero.”
Alistair Phillips-Davies, Chief Executive of SSE, said: “Carbon capture will play a critical role not only in decarbonising the UK’s power system but also in unlocking economic growth and boosting our energy security, and today’s announcement marks a major step forward in its deployment.
“We know how important it is that the north-east of Scotland and Humber are decarbonised and the decision to support the Scottish Cluster and Viking Cluster shows that there is commitment to doing so.
“Time remains of the essence. Now, we must move quickly to deploy the transport and storage infrastructure which will underpin the rollout of CCS across the chosen clusters. Doing so will allow crucial low-carbon projects – such as our carbon capture project at Peterhead – to be brought forward, supporting the energy transition while providing good, green jobs and enhancing regional economies.
“The UK has a real opportunity to lead the world on carbon capture if we can accelerate progress and today’s announcement provides welcome impetus.”
