The UK government has approved the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea, citing energy security, employment and economic benefits as geopolitical tensions threaten global supplies.
Located about 150 miles east of Aberdeen, the project could increase Britain’s domestic gas production by around 6% at peak capacity. The government estimates it could contribute £2.9 billion to the economy, support hundreds of jobs and begin supplying homes and businesses by the end of October.
The government also announced a £2 billion Energy Wealth Fund to support renewable and low-carbon projects using North Sea tax revenues.
Environmental groups criticised the approval, arguing that expanding fossil fuel production conflicts with climate targets. The government must now decide whether to approve the proposed Rosebank oilfield off Scotland’s Shetland Islands.
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UK approves new gas field in the North Sea amid concerns about energy security https://t.co/heIJCkI5ML
— LNG Global (@lngglobal) October 21, 2026
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