Stronger Protection for Offshore UK Energy Assets Needed Amid Growing Threats, OEUK Says
Offshore energy installations that supply much of Britain's oil, gas and renewable power should be designated as Critical National Infrastructure to strengthen protection against emerging security threats, Offshore Energies UK said.In a statement on Friday, OEUK Safety and Security Policy Manager Graham Skinner also urged the government to streamline threat-reporting procedures and reduce administrative burdens on operators while strengthening military deterrence around offshore assets.He called for greater focus on cybersecurity fundamentals, including supply chain audits, and increased cooperation across industry and government to encourage private investment in energy security and resilience."Offshore assets are not just far from Westminster, they are far from the security services and far from immediate military support," Skinner said. "The threat landscape is evolving rapidly, and both industry and government must be prepared to respond."He said OEUK recently took part in Granite Resolve, a crisis simulation exercise conducted with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero that tested responses to a major offshore incident.The exercise showed industry could manage current threats but highlighted the need to improve preparedness for future risks.North Sea production supplies nearly half of the UK's gas demand and supports refinery operations that provide transport fuels across Britain and Europe. Despite its strategic importance, offshore energy infrastructure is not currently classified as CNI.OEUK warned that expanding offshore wind developments in deeper and more remote waters could increase vulnerabilities across the energy system.Among its recommendations, OEUK is seeking CNI designation for offshore installations, streamlined reporting procedures, enhanced intelligence-sharing mechanisms and the creation of a dedicated maritime security forum similar to arrangements in Norway.Skinner said operators facing uncertain threats may have little choice but to shut down facilities as a precaution, potentially affecting energy supplies during periods of high demand.He added that strengthening resilience now would help protect Britain's energy infrastructure against an increasingly complex threat environment.