Is the idea of future exploration for hydrocarbons dead in the water?

Tynwald rejects motion to invite applications for fresh hydrocarbons exploration

It's been 10 months since Crogga's licence to extract gas from an area off the Island's coast expired.

And now, a bid in Tynwald for government to invite applications for a fresh hydrocarbon exploration has been quashed by the Island's lawmakers.

In the sitting of parliament this week, Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas called for a report with recommendations for debate and decision to be brought back by July next year.

The Hon. Member for Douglas Central, Mr Thomas, to move – That Tynwald calls on Government:

a) to invite applications for a hydrocarbons exploration and production licence for previously licenced block 112/25 in its Territorial Seas;

and b) to lay a report with recommendations for debate and decision at the July 2026 sitting of Tynwald on:

i. the regulations, consenting requirements, North and Irish Sea standards of operatorship and stewardship, and other relevant policy and process documents, that would apply to hydrocarbon appraisal, flow testing and field development including co-location with offshore wind facilities;

ii. options to enhance seismic data and environmental studies to provide a full understanding of subsurface potential and risks, including the merits of national stewardship of the Island’s hydrocarbon resources

He argued the door shouldn't be entirely closed on the idea of exploring for gas in Manx waters:

He wasn't the only one who argued for the option to remain open, he was joined by Middle MHK Stu Peters, Glenfaba and Peel's Kate Lord-Brennan, Onchan's Julie Edge (who also seconded the motion) and Douglas North's John Wannenburgh:

However, the motion had its critics too; with Douglas East MHK Clare Barber, Rushen MHK Michelle Haywood, and MLCs Paul Craine and Rob Mercer voicing their concerns in the court: