Gas platform. picture credit to: Alan O'Neill No resale or syndication Archant use only

A leading energy official has told of the challenges that need to be faced to help extend the life of the southern North Sea energy gas field.

Speaking to delegates at the East of England Energy Group Southern North Sea Conference in Norwich, Bill Cattanach, of the department for energy and climate change, said: “There are big projects coming forward, but there are still challenges we need to face.

“Wells are losing pressure, and we have water coming into some wells. So, we need to think of ways to deal with that.

“If you are successful in doing that then we can see the life of the Southern North Sea extended considerably.”

Meanwhile, Energy-giant Perenco has called on businesses to help them solve the challenges it faces with decommissioning gas platforms.

Keith Tucker, decommissioning manager, gave a check list in his speech at the East of England Energy Conference of the technology he needs to drive-down the cost of dismantling redundant gas platforms in the Southern North Sea.

And he called on the supply chain businesses at the conference “to talk to him” if they can provide the answers he needs.

The innovation areas Mr Tucker outlined included advancements in cutting technology, improvements for well tubular removal and the need for bulk cement transfer vessels in the region - as the company currently uses ships from Aberdeen.

He said: “our experience of decommissioning have shown us where the opportunities lie.”

“If you have the solutions for these challenges we want to talk to you - as my boss says if you don’t ask, then you don’t get.”

The two day conference is taking place at the Royal Norfolk Showground.