MPs Urge Support for North Sea Workers Amid Renewable Transition

UK Members of Parliament from across parties are urging the government to provide more robust transitional support for North Sea oil and gas workers as the nation shifts toward renewable energy. Concerns have been raised about a critical skills shortage, with highly skilled workers increasingly seeking opportunities abroad due to political uncertainty and lack of investment in the renewables transition. MPs emphasize that a just transition must include investment in training, port infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing capacity to ensure enough quality jobs are created in the renewable sector. Recent debates have highlighted the decline in oil and gas jobs, particularly in regions like Aberdeen, and the risk that without immediate action, the UK will lose essential expertise needed for its clean energy ambitions. Energy Minister Michael Shanks acknowledged past failures to plan adequately for such transitions, using the impending closure of the Grangemouth refinery as an example. Campaigners and unions have called for clear government plans and dedicated funds to support workers in moving to new roles, warning that otherwise, communities and the UK's energy future could be undermined.