Energy is one of the most significant industries in the world. Every country is looking to ensure they can meet their needs. It has also become a major political issue. Some argue the future is sustainable energy like wind and solar. Others back nuclear. Then, there are supporters of continuing to use oil and gas. As a top gas vent silencer and industrial noise specialist, we keep a close eye on things here.
Past glories
The discovery of oil and gas reserves below the North Sea was one of the most significant stories of the 20th century. It had a huge impact on the UK, allowing us to become a net exporter at the peak of productivity in late 90s and early 00s. Sadly though, there has been a decline since then and we now rely on imports for oil and gas.
Estimates claim there are still significant reserves of oil and gas in the North Sea. However, the total is far below the heights of the past. There are also key issues such as higher costs for extraction and bans on licenses for new operators. Oil in particular is proving to be more challenging. In many fields it is harder and the quality is poorer. So, it deters many companies from going after it. A lot of businesses no longer operate in the region, looking elsewhere instead.
Two stances
Interestingly, the whole thing has become a political battleground. The current Labour Government is backing plans to be net zero by 2050. As part of this, they are pledging to ban new drilling in the North Sea. There would be support for current operations, including easing the tax burden, confirming oil and gas is still a significant piece of the puzzle for a clean energy future. However, more focus will be on renewable energy, including offshore wind.
Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch is on the other side of the fence though. She said achieving net zero is “impossible”. Instead, her approach will be to focus on expanding oil and gas extraction from the North Sea. As part of this, she would get rid of the ban on new licensing. It could lead to lots of activity, and could mean more demand for equipment like our gas vent silencer solutions.
What next?
It will be interesting to see what happens in the future. There is a clear difference of opinion at the moment, so there could be significant changes in strategy if the Conservative Party gets back into power at the next General Election.
Many experts are suggesting the best option for the UK would be to find a balance. Oil and gas could continue in the North Sea as long as it is viable. However, there should also be backing for wind. It is already successful, generating around 30% of our energy. There is potential to keep scaling it up, taking advantage of our geographical location.
The most important thing in the future will be to ensure the electric grid is up to standard. In addition, we’ll have to ensure we can cover the cost, including the bill for new renewable tech.
Do you want to design a gas vent silencer?
Ventx is one of the most reliable experts in our industry. We specialise in tackling industrial noise, including from oil and gas operations and much more. It is a massive hazard to people and the environment. That is why we focus on designing the most effective solutions. Every one is bespoke to provide maximum noise reduction.
So, if you need a gas vent silencer or any other kind of model, get in touch with us. We’re the perfect resource thanks to our wealth of knowledge in acoustics and engineering.
