The UK government has confirmed that a newly discovered gas field beneath Gainsborough, estimated to be worth £110 billion, will remain untapped. Despite its potential to create thousands of jobs and contribute to the nation’s energy supply, the government has announced it will not issue new licenses for onshore gas extraction. The ban will remain in place due to concerns about seismic activity caused by the drilling process.
The gas field in the Gainsborough Trough beneath West Lindsey is expected to be formally announced by energy company Egdon later this month. However, the government remains committed to its renewable energy strategy, focusing on reducing dependency on fossil fuels. A spokesperson emphasised the shift towards clean energy by 2030, underscoring the potential economic benefits of this transition, particularly in industrial regions.
While local politicians have expressed concerns, with some calling for a reevaluation of the fracking ban, the government has reiterated its stance on protecting the economy and the environment. There is also no guarantee that private companies extracting the gas would prioritize domestic use over exports.
Despite the local support for the field, the government’s strategy continues to prioritise renewable energy investment, particularly in wind and solar power, as part of its long-term energy security plan.
