Government seeks regulator for offshore gas well

The role would involve managing environmentally responsible extraction of hydrocarbons in Manx waters

The Isle of Man Government is looking for expressions of interest for a regulatory body to oversee the drilling of an offshore exploration gas well.

Government’s procurement portal details a call for a private company or suitably qualified government department to take on a regulatory role similar to that provided by the North Sea Transition Authority, the Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning, and the Health and Safety Executive in the UK.

The role would involve managing the Island’s potential energy resources and ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible extraction of hydrocarbons.

According to the listing, the successful applicant would be granted statutory powers leading up to, during, and after the drilling and testing phases, including through suspension or plug and abandonment activities.

This move comes after Crogga's licence to explore for natural gas expired on 28 February, after both parties failed to agree on terms.

Crogga has since accused government of not having the necessary legislation and regulatory framework in place to support its exploration activities.

The Isle of Man Government has denied this claim, stating it ‘bent over backwards’ to accommodate Crogga’s requests and had intended to adopt regulatory measures based on the UK’s framework.

Infrastructure Minister Michelle Haywood previously ruled out revisiting a Tynwald resolution that prevents new hydrocarbon exploration licences from being issued, aligning with the Isle of Man’s pledge to contribute to net-zero emissions by 2050.

Government’s latest procurement move raises questions about the future of offshore hydrocarbon exploration in Manx waters.

It remains unclear whether the appointment of a regulatory body would lead to new drilling operations.

Manx Radio has approached the Isle of Man Government for comment.