Harbour Energy, the UK’s largest oil and gas producer, plans to reduce approximately 100 offshore roles as part of a comprehensive review of its UK operations. This decision reflects the challenging economic and fiscal environment confronting the UK oil and gas sector.

The review comes in response to a combination of factors adversely affecting the UK offshore business, namely sustained pressure from lower commodity prices and the continued imposition of the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), which the company describes as an “uncompetitive tax regime.”

A formal consultation will begin immediately and is expected to conclude by the end of the first quarter of 2026. Final decisions on which roles will be affected will be taken only after that consultation concludes.

Harbour Energy acknowledges the impact that this reduction will have on employees and communities. The company pledges to treat those affected fairly and to provide support throughout the process. Where possible, Harbour will explore redeployment opportunities and offer appropriate severance or assistance.

Scott Barr, Managing Director of Harbour Energy’s UK business unit, commented:
“This offshore reorganisation is a necessary step to align our operating model with the reduced activity and production levels in the UK, a situation accelerated by the retention of the Energy Profits Levy. While this is an unavoidable change given current economic and fiscal conditions, we recognise the human consequences and are committed to supporting those impacted throughout this process.”

KeyFacts Energy: Harbour Energy UK country profile