Energy Act 1976
918.Section 9 of the Energy Act 1976 requires the Secretary of State’s consent for offshore natural gas to be subjected in Great Britain to any process of liquefaction which results in the production of liquid methane or ethane.
919.Section 9 of the Energy Act 1976 was introduced to control the possible export of natural gas from the gas fields being newly exploited offshore in the North Sea, given such exports could affect domestic energy supplies. Export was expected to be achieved by liquefaction of the natural gas in Great Britain. However, there has been no market demand for such exports. In consequence, no requests for consent for a permission under section 9 are recorded and the provision is no longer of practical use.
920.The repeal forms part of the law of England and Wales and Scotland and will come into force at the end of the period of 2 months beginning with the day on which the Act is passed.