The Scottish Government says it is ready to engage with BP following the company’s decision to put its North Sea business up for sale, warning that the move will create uncertainty for workers and the wider offshore energy sector.

Energy Minister Stephen Gethins said the Scottish Government would work with BP and other partners to understand the impact of the sale process and support those employed across the industry.

The announcement comes as the future of North Sea oil and gas continues to be debated alongside Scotland’s transition towards renewable energy.

Stephen Gethins said:

“BP has a long and significant history in the North Sea, making a substantial contribution to the economy over 60 years of production.

“The commercial decision announced today of a sale of its assets will cause uncertainty for workers.

“The Scottish Government is ready to engage with BP and other partners to understand the impacts of the sale process and to support the workforce.

“Scotland’s future prosperity and our contribution to energy security are reliant on North Sea energy production and, crucially, the skills and experience of that workforce, not least in the North East.

“We need to see a parallel track approach to the energy transition, in which North Sea oil and gas production is managed alongside the increasing deployment of renewables.

“What is happening at the moment is that reserved policies such as the Energy Profits Levy are driving an accelerated decline of North Sea oil and gas before renewables are fully ready to meet our energy needs.

“We are committed to doing everything within our limited powers to ensure the future success of the offshore energy industry, working with local communities, businesses and the UK Government.

“The UK Government needs to take urgent action to protects jobs, energy security and investment in our energy sector.”

The Scottish Government says it will continue discussions with BP and other partners as the sale process develops, with the focus on protecting jobs, maintaining energy security and supporting the future of Scotland’s offshore energy industry.