Environment Report 2017

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International Comparison In comparison with international counterparts, the UKCS’ maturity means that it is expected to have a higher carbon intensity. The recent gains in this area outlined previously highlight the positive work by companies on the UKCS during late-life asset management.

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In 2016, the UKCS emitted 13.1 million tonnes of CO 2

. This is comparable to Norway which released a total

of 13.3 million tonnes of CO 2 , down from 13.5 in 2015. However, Norway’s production was over twice that of the UK’s in 2016 and produced at a lower carbon intensity. A combination of more assets producing from smaller fields, and the majority of UKCS assets reaching the mature phase of their life cycle, has led to a higher carbon intensity over the long term compared to the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The latter is less mature and home to a smaller number of installations producing from larger fields.

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However, while the UKCS’ carbon intensity may be higher than that of its North Sea neighbour (see Figure 9 below), this does not take into account emissions generated during transportation.

Figure 9: Carbon Intensity International Comparison

5

90%

30

UK

Norway

European Average

UK Production Efficiency

6

80%

25

70%

7

60%

20

50%

15

8

40%

10

30%

Production Efficiency (%)

9

20%

5

10%

Carbon Intensity (Kilotonnes of CO₂ per Million boe)

10

0

0%

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Source: EEMS, Oil & Gas UK, IOGP, OGA

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