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North Sea companies delay oilfield opening after early UK election called

Three British energy companies have chosen to delay by a year the prepared start of oil production at their jointventure oilfield in the North Sea, pointing out the require for clarity on the financial policies of the next government.

Jersey Oil and Gas, which owns 20% of the Buchan field, offered the upgrade on Wednesday on behalf of the joint endeavor partners, amongst them Serica Energy and 50%- stake-owning operator NEO Energy.

Shares in Jersey were down 16% and Serica's shares dipped almost 1% after the news.

Lots of North Sea oil and gas manufacturers have been combining, shifting overseas, and cutting financial investment as Britain's windfall tax slashes earnings and the opposition Labour Party threatens more tax if it wins the next basic election.

When Serica purchased its 30% stake in the Buchan field from Jersey Oil and Gas in February, the target for very first oil production remained in the 4th quarter of 2026.

That was before last month's call by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for the general election on July 4. Jersey stated on Wednesday the first oil target has actually now relocated to late 2027 after the earlier-than-expected election date.

Jersey said the Buchan Field Advancement Plan was on course for end-2024 approval.

However it included, The precise timing for accomplishing this secret milestone and enabling project sanction is naturally linked to securing financial clearness from the next government and ensuring that the project remains financially appealing.

The Labour Party, with a strong lead in polls, has actually promised to raise the windfall tax by 3% to assist fund its energy transition method, which the North Sea oil market has complained would further deter investment.

We prepare for the UK federal government will offer financial clarity such that the operator of the Buchan redevelopment will have adequate self-confidence in the fiscal program to progress with task sanction, stated WH Ireland analyst Brendan Long.

It is the best undeveloped oilfield of its kind in the UK North Sea in terms of scale and low threat, he included.

(source: Reuters)