The UK Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) has opened an investigation into a possible breach of a flare consent, contrary to the requirements of the licence.
The investigation follows an enquiry that concluded that there was sufficient initial evidence to merit a full investigation into a potential failure to comply.
Among other things, the OGA probe will gather and assess further information to enable it to reach a decision, and offer the undisclosed company the opportunity to provide written representations. The investigation follows the publication in October 2020 of the thematic review into industry compliance with regulatory obligations.
The OGA recently issued consolidated and updated guidance on flaring and venting, which sets a tougher approach to driving reductions. Flaring is responsible for a fifth of UK offshore oil and gas production-related carbon dioxide emissions and 1% of total UK annual CO2 emissions.
