The Oil and Gas MER UK Forum
The MER UK Forum works across government, industry and the Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) with the aim of maximising economic recovery of our oil and gas resources.
The purpose of the Oil and Gas MER UK forum is to deliver MER UK (Maximising the Economic Recovery from the UK’s offshore oil and gas resources) and to maximise UK value from the offshore oil and gas industry as a whole.
Members include senior leaders from government, industry and the OGA. The MER UK Forum objectives are:
- To promote dialogue between government, industry and OGA
- To provide strategic direction, oversight and support
- To drive alignment, accountability, action and delivery on key priorities.
Seven core work areas, essential to the long term success of the sector have been identified, these are represented by separate MER UK Boards which report to the MER UK Forum (see below for more details).
Vision
Maximising the economic recovery of the UK’s remaining oil and gas resources is vital to the continued energy security and prosperity of this country. It is estimated that these resources could approach 20 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Through the tripartite approach identified by Sir Ian Wood in his report , industry, government and the OGA will advance initiatives directed at reducing cost, eliminating barriers, improving collaborative ways of working and maximising the effectiveness of resources.
Membership and Participants
The Oil and Gas MER UK Forum is chaired by Andy Samuel, the Chief Executive of the OGA. Members of the forum include senior oil and gas industry representatives (including operators, the supply chain and trade associations), government ministers and officials, senior leaders from the OGA and trade union representation. Other participants may be invited to join the meeting as and when required by the agenda.
Secretariat functions are provided by OGA’s Communications and External Affairs team.
Minutes
MER UK Boards
Seven core work areas, each essential to the long-term success of the sector, have a separate MER UK Board, each of which reports to the Oil and Gas MER UK Forum. Each MER UK Board is led by a representative from industry and they have all been tasked with delivering tangible and quantifiable results. In order to achieve this, each board has developed a strategy, priorities and plans.
The seven boards are detailed below – with a link to a one page summary which includes their objectives and membership and key relationships. Minutes from board meetings will also be added as they occur.
Exploration
Revitalising exploration in the UKCS is essential to add reserves to replace production and secure longevity of the basin.
Asset Stewardship
This board will work to enhance and improve asset stewardship by maximising value through improving safety, efficiency and reducing cost.
Regional Development and Infrastructure
It is essential that regional developments are considered holistically rather than individually. In addition it is critical for success of the sector that key infrastructure is retained and is accessible.
Cost and Efficiency
This board will be a catalyst and vehicle for pan-industry improvement in efficiency by encouraging collaboration and focusing on value-adding initiatives to create a sustainable sector.
Technology
New and improved technology has a key role to play in maximising recovery from the UKCS. This board will work with industry, government and stakeholders to adopt, adapt or develop oil and gas technologies, secure investments to deliver high value benefits and strengthen industry competitiveness.
Decommissioning
There is an opportunity to establish in the UK a global centre of expertise. A successful sector will play a significant role in minimising costs and maximising recovery through collaboration and fit for purpose lifecycle planning, policies, solutions and execution.
Supply Chain, Exports and Skills Board
The UK oil and gas supply chain is a significant employer and exporter of goods, services and expertise. This board will work with industry, government and trade bodies to promote and strengthen the supply chain including exports, improving sustainability, local and global competitiveness while anchoring activities in the UK. The board will also ensure there is a sustainable pool of skilled individuals in place to support the sector.
Contact details
For details about the Oil and Gas MER UK Forum and the MER UK Boards please contact: oga.merukforum@oga.gsi.gov.uk
Previous Groups
The MER UK Forum builds on, and replaces, the work of previous groups including PILOT