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Geological and Geochemical Studies of Northwest European Continental Shelf |
Petroleum Engineering Division, Department of Energy, London SW1, England
Three Divisions of the U.K. Department of Energy have responsibility for petroleum. Oil Division handles policy including Licence administration. Gas Division handles gas policy. All technical matters relating to exploration, development and safety are handled by Petroleum Engineering Division (PED). Their role is to advise Ministers on exploration and development policy and to carry out the policy so decided.
Exploration Branch of PED has three sections: Geological, Geophysical and the Well Record Centre. To advise Ministers, Exploration Branch requires a comprehensive knowledge of U.K. geology and prospects. All data received from operators is passed on a confidential basis to the hydrocarbons Unit of the Institute of Geological Sciences where the review work is carried out on the Department’s behalf. Exploration Branch recommends areas for licensing, interviews applicants to determine their suitability as licensees and negotiates work programmes with selected applicants. Additional responsibilities include technical appraisal of fields, the determination of field boundaries for tax purposes and the estimation of reserves.
Exploration Branch works closely with the Development, Projects and Administration Branches of PED in the approval of development plans and field monitoring. The Safety, Pipelines, Diving and Research Branches of PED play an active role in the control of exploration and development operations.
