French Oil Giant, Total has been awarded 11 blocks west of Shetland in what has been called one of the UK’s largest ever licensing rounds.

In what is seen as a huge commitment to their future in the UK, Total has won the right to prospect in some of the deepest waters west of Shetland where experts believe there could be a lot more oil and where oil giants BP have already had huge success with their Clair Field and Clair Ridge developments.

UK independent Chrysaor was also successful in securing a block west of Shetland with more license wins going to smaller companies than ever before.

Oil and Gas People Managing Director Kevin Forbes, Said: “It is extremely encouraging to see companies begin to look seriously at frontier areas, stepping away from known basins and into deeper water. The technology has finally caught up and it is a very exciting time for the North Sea and the industry as a whole”

The Licensing round also seen the first every exploration licenses awarded in the West of Hebrides area

Announcing the awards, Business and Energy Minister Matthew Hancock said: “This successful licensing round, which is on track to be one of biggest rounds ever in five decades, is a boost for the UK economy.

“Industry are scrambling over themselves to invest in the UK and explore for energy.”

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