The United Kingdom Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) has published the first results of the 30th oil and gas Offshore Licensing Round, which has attracted 96 applications covering 239 blocks across the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). The UK 30th licensing round offered 813 blocks or part blocks in mature areas of the Southern, Central and Northern North Seas as well the West Shetlands and the East Irish Sea with a total acreage of 114,426 km2. Applications were received from 68 companies, including major and medium sized companies, and the chosen ones will likely be announced in the second quarter of 2018.
The industry has responded strongly to this round and this figure shows a rebound compared to the previous 29th licensing round, which only attracted 29 companies in October 2016. Eventually, the OGA awarded 25 licences for 111 blocks or part blocks to 17 companies in March 2017. The 31st Offshore Licensing Round, expected in mid-2018, should focus on frontier areas of the UKCS.