The oil and gas industry has been a vital resource to help with ensuring the UK has the energy it needs to power the economy and provide the reassurance of reliable energy supplies. In this post, we’ll be digging deeper into the oil and gas industry. From its history to its future, we’ll be helping you to discover more about this exciting and innovative sector and how you can become involved in it. Keep reading to learn more.
Where The Oil And Gas Industry Started
The UK oil and gas industry rose to prominence in the 1960s due to the discovery of large reserves located in the North Sea. This changed the game for the UK energy industry, as it was no longer reliant on fossil fuels from other countries. This not only meant more reliable supplies of energy for the UK, but also a huge boost to the economy financially too. It also led to a huge number of job roles being created, economic development, and creating large tax revenues for the UK government. Production of oil peaked in the 1990s, helping to boost economic growth and security.
Gas And Oil Regulatory Bodies
As the oil and gas industry grew, the UK government established regulatory bodies to help oversee the sector. The Department of Energy was created in 1974, followed by the establishment of the Offshore Supplies Office and the formation of the Offshore Petroleum Licensing System. There are now several bodies that oversee the industry. These consist of:
- Oil and Gas Authority (OGA)
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning (OPRED)
- Environment Agency (EA)
- Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)
These regulatory bodies work collaboratively to ensure the safe and responsible operation of the gas and oil industry in the UK. They establish and enforce regulations, conduct inspections and audits, issue permits and licenses, and provide guidance and support to operators. The aim is to protect workers, the environment, and public health while promoting sustainable resource development and energy security.
Career Prospects In The Industry
There are a range of different roles within the oil and gas industry, ranging from chemical engineer jobs to logistical or finance roles. The career prospects for roles in the industry are generally good, with both good starting salaries and potential for future growth. If you’re looking to find a role that will provide good long-term prospects, then this sector could be a great option. The more experience and hands-on skills you acquire, the more likely you will be of securing a higher salary with the option to progress in your career in more senior roles.
Life On An Oil Rig
Life on an oil rig is unique and can sometimes be challenging. Workers stay on a rig for an extended period of time, to work on operations before having an extended period of time off again. Although the conditions on the rig can be challenging due to weather, there is also plenty of opportunity to unwind during spare time too. There are recreational spaces for socialising and relaxing, as well as a canteen for meals and spending time with colleagues. Due to the isolating conditions on board that can be overwhelming for some, there are support services available to help employees with their mental well-being. Building a strong relationship with colleagues and thriving off teamwork are essentials to help make sure oil rig employees enjoy their line of work. It also helps to make life on board an offshore oil rig more enjoyable and rewarding. Offshore working can be a great option for those seeking a more unique role outside a 9-5 job. It’s also a rewarding career both in terms of salary and building work-based friendships and support due to the living conditions.
Adapting For the Future
As the pressure for the oil and gas industry to evolve and reduce the use of fossil fuels, new methods of energy production are having to be developed and implemented. Renewable energy sources such as offshore wind farms, solar energy production, and biochemistry are increasingly being used as cleaner energy sources. This creates further roles within the industry for those specialising in renewable energy engineering, research, and development. It’s likely that the industry will continue to adapt and evolve as time goes on and the environmental concerns grow more pressing to address. For those working in the industry, the ability to be open-minded and willing to continually learn will be an important skill to possess.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
With the pressure to reduce the impact on the environment, the oil and gas industry is having to create new methods to prioritise the health of our planet. One of these new methods is carbon capture and storage (CCS). This method captures the carbon dioxide emissions released as a result of processes carried out by the industry. They are then stored underground to prevent them from being released into the atmosphere. It’s hoped that this new method of offsetting emissions will help to reduce the impact that the energy industry has on the environment.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
The industry recognises the importance of engaging with local communities and stakeholders. Companies are actively involved in community development initiatives, fostering positive relationships, and promoting social responsibility. Investments and efforts are being made to help support education in local communities to help increase awareness around the oil and gas industry and how it’s adapting for the future.
A Changing Workforce
With the developments being made in the industry, there is a shift in the types of employees being sought after for roles within it. Research and development play a crucial role in advancing technologies and practices within the industry. Scientists, engineers, and researchers can pursue careers in research institutions, gas and oil companies, or government agencies focused on developing innovative solutions for efficient extraction, refining, and utilisation of hydrocarbon resources. This includes areas such as carbon capture and storage, enhanced oil recovery techniques, and renewable energy technologies. These new and evolving roles are increasingly becoming available alongside more traditional roles in the industry. Instead of the skills and knowledge of existing employees going to waste, they are instead being retrained with the aim of adapting to the more renewable technology being increasingly implemented. Energy markets are complex and dynamic, requiring professionals with expertise in energy trading and risk management. Individuals with knowledge of commodity markets, supply chain management, risk assessment, and financial analysis can find rewarding careers in energy trading firms, energy companies, and financial institutions involved in the energy sector.
Increasing Productivity Through Tech
Technological advancements, such as digitalisation, automation, and artificial intelligence, are transforming the gas and oil industry. Automation is becoming an increasingly useful and popular tool in a range of different business sectors, including the oil and gas industry. These technologies improve operational efficiency, optimise production processes, and reduce costs. Remote monitoring systems, advanced data analytics, and predictive maintenance are being used to enhance safety, optimise asset performance, and enable remote operations. Automation is also being implemented in drilling, production, and refining processes to improve accuracy and productivity. As with other sectors, the hope is that AI and other technological developments can help to improve productivity for the future of the oil and gas industry.
