The Guardian view on drilling in Jackdaw: a truly pragmatic approach would focus on Britain’s green transition
Opening the North Sea gasfield will deliver minimal benefits for households, while sending a dismal signal before next month’s Cop summit
TL;DR
- Approving new drilling in the Jackdaw gasfield offers minimal benefits for households and jobs.
- The decision sends a negative signal before the upcoming Cop climate summit.
- Claims of enhancing UK energy security are exaggerated; the field will only meet 2% of national demand.
- Political expediency, especially in Scotland, appears to be a key reason for the decision.
- Investing in green energy, like home insulation and heat pumps, would provide greater economic benefits and jobs.
- Achieving energy security, supporting workers, and reducing bills would be better served by investing in climate goals.