Why does EDF Energy's CEO Simone Rossi call new UK oil and gas projects a 'no-brainer'?

Simone Rossi calls new UK oil and gas projects a 'no-brainer' because they reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, lower emissions compared to long-distance imports, support jobs and government tax revenues for energy bill relief, and are compatible with the net zero agenda while the UK transitions over decades to electricity-based energy — as he states: 'It will take decades to wean off from that dependency... So while this is happening we should use the resources that we've got rather than importing them from afar. For me, it's really a no-brainer. It is not in contradiction.'

What are the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects, and why is the UK government's decision on them politically significant?

Rosebank and Jackdaw are two North Sea oil and gas fields for which final consent is pending; both already hold licences granted under the previous Conservative government, meaning approval would not breach Labour’s election manifesto — which rules out new exploration licences but permits development in already licensed or adjacent areas using existing infrastructure. The decision is politically significant because it tests Labour’s climate commitments amid pressure from environmental groups and Green Party leader Zack Polanski, while also drawing support from across the political spectrum including Labour figures like Rachel Reeves and Wes Streeting, and trade union leaders — and because the timing was reportedly delayed until after the 8 October Holborn and St Pancras by-election, where Polanski is standing.

EDF Boss Says New UK Gas and Oil Projects Are a 'No-Brainer'

4 hours ago

EDF Energy head Simone Rossi supports new North Sea oil and gas projects, arguing they lower import dependency without contradicting net zero. The UK government is set to decide on the Rosebank and Jackdaw licenses soon.

theguardian

2026-10-01

EDF Boss Says New UK Gas and Oil Projects Are a 'No-Brainer'

EDF Boss Says New UK Gas and Oil Projects Are a 'No-Brainer'

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