Hundreds of jobs at risk if East Yorkshire gas storage site closes, union warns

The union Unite is calling on the government to step in to stop the closure of the Rough gas storage facility, which sits 18 miles off the coast of East Yorkshire.

Unite says the move is needed to protect the security of the UK's gas supply and to safeguard hundreds of jobs.

The union says there is growing concern that Centrica will close the facility unless the government agrees a new funding formula.

Centrica has said that without a deal Rough could close by March.

Unite says the Rough platform can accommodate half of the UK's gas storage supply, but is currently empty because of the dispute between the government and Centrica.

The union says that as a result the UK has only 12 days of gas supply in storage, the lowest level in recent history.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "The Rough storage facility is essential to the energy security of the UK. Threats of closure are endangering jobs and our ability to keep the lights on and heat homes.

"The general public will not forgive the government or Centrica if this facility is allowed to close and our energy supply becomes even more risky in an increasing uncertain world."

Jobs at risk

Unite says a closure would directly result in the loss of 100 well-paid, skilled roles and a further 350 jobs in the supply chain.

Calls for public ownership

The union believes the Rough platform is part of the UK's critical infrastructure and says all options should be considered to keep it open and fully operational.

Unite says that should include the possibility of bringing it into public ownership.

It also believes the platform could play a part in the transition to net zero, and that in future the facility could be adapted to store hydrogen rather than natural gas.

Unite national officer for energy Simon Coop said: "Rough is a part of the UK's critical infrastructure and is vital to energy security supply. Therefore, the government needs to work with all parties to secure the future of Rough. If that is not possible then Unite will push for the government to keep the site open at all costs including the option of public ownership."

Government response

A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) said: "UK gas supply is diverse and highly resilient. Gas storage was only 5% of our supply last winter."

The spokesperson added: "We have plans in place to maintain our energy security, whilst ensuring value for money for consumers and continuing the transition to clean power."