Esso searches for oil

Esso searches for oil off Western Isles

23 March 2017

► Study signals new hope for Rockall oil and gas exploration

Esso is leading the search for oil and gas off the Western Isles.

The oil major has secured exploration rights for a sea area some 55 miles south west of Barra.

Norwegian multinational Statoil will partner the project.

They were awarded licences to focus on under-explored areas of the Rockall Basin.

A recent study - commissioned by the UK government - identified the eastern edge of the basin as an area of interest for future exploration activity.

The Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) awarded offshore licences to 17 companies in pioneer areas of the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) including Rockall, east of Shetland and the North Sea.

Andy Samuel, chief executive of the OGA, said: “Licences awarded will provide continued opportunities for our world-class service sector to develop technology and expertise, and ultimately, should provide new energy supplies to the UK.”

He said the “strong” interest from the energy industry “ “despite the difficult climate” confirms the high remaining potential in the continental shelf frontier areas.”

Esso will explore between Barra and Rockall