PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS (SEAs), INCLUDING THE PROVISION OF A NEW SEA, TO SUPPORT OFFSHORE ENERGY LICENSING / LEASING ROUNDS.

BEIS is responsible for administering environmental legislation that applies to offshore oil and gas, offshore gas and carbon dioxide storage. The Department has had a legal obligation since 2004 under EU Directive 2001/42/EC and the implementing UK SEA Regulations to undertake an SEA to inform its decision on plans and programmes covering offshore oil and gas, offshore gas and carbon dioxide storage, and offshore renewables. This means that SEAs need to be carried out and maintained as necessary prior to licensing / leasing rounds in which offshore areas on the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) are offered. Screening and Appropriate Assessments will additionally be required, if any applications relating to a specific licensing round could potentially significantly affect the integrity of any site designated, or being considered for designation, under the Habitats Directive (EC/92/42/EEC) or the Wild Birds Directive (EC/79/409/EEC). The specification for this project is attached.