We recently spoke with Katharine Barney, Head of Communications and External Affairs at the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA), to gain her perspective on SPE Offshore Europe and its significance to the NSTA.
Katharine Barney is an accomplished communications professional with over two decades of experience in media and journalism. Her career journey has led her from political reporting to her current leadership role at the NSTA, where she oversees communications and external affairs.
Prior to joining the NSTA in June 2022, Katharine held key positions at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), including Head of News Desk, Resilience and Crisis Communications.
With her extensive background in media relations and government communications, Katharine brings a wealth of expertise to her role at the NSTA. Her dynamic leadership style and strategic approach to communications contribute significantly to the NSTA’s efforts in promoting and defending its independence, as well as maintaining its position as a trusted source of data in the offshore energy sector
Why is it important for the NSTA to be represented at OE?
Katharine Barney: We want to be able to explain to people the breadth of what we do and why we do it. Even though the North Sea Transition Authority has only been in existence for ten years (and for most of that as the Oil and Gas Authority), our role has evolved and expanded within that time.
What role does the regulator have to play in events like these, and what role does the event play in ensuring the sector is aligned with the UK’s energy strategy?
Katharine Barney: Being at OE is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase the depth of knowledge within the organisation, and also to hear from the industry about their challenges and opportunities. Not only do we have our Chief Executive and other members of staff on the main stage, but we also run our own seminar programme which provides a really good opportunity for in-depth teach-ins and Q&A sessions.
From the NSTA’s perspective, what are the most transformative topics that will be explored at OE25
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Given the challenges in transitioning to clean energy, how does attending OE25 provide progress in overcoming obstacles like regulatory hurdles, cost concerns and environmental impacts?
Katharine Barney: There’s so much opportunity for knowledge sharing and showcasing new technology, whether it’s by listening to the guest speakers and panels, visiting stands, or simply chatting to others in the industry.
We’ll also be launching our annual Emissions Monitoring Report, which also shows how much progress has been made, which is something not to lose sight of.
What are you most looking forward to experiencing at OE25?
Katharine Barney: The variety of it all. It’s always a fantastic opportunity to learn more and meet new people. I’ll be spending quite a lot of time on our stand, but also listening to our seminar programme, the main panels and, of course, mingling both at the event and also in the evenings.
The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) stands firm on its immense responsibility to hold the offshore industry accountable. They ensure that it continues to reduce carbon emissions, all while it provides energy for the UK and pushes for trade developments.
The NSTA joining SPE Offshore Europe (OE25) is a testament to this responsibility and a significant step in coalescing valued stakeholders. Their attendance is an opportunity to feel out the pulse and needs of the offshore community, especially in the face of the energy transition.
With its commitment and influence—regulating oil and gas, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage industries in the UK continental shelf—enlisting the participation of esteemed organisations like the NSTA can encourage more exchanges in the sector.
And building upon these shared solutions, best practices, and revolutionary research, energy production that is environmentally conscious and secure, despite future challenges and changes, becomes a reality.
Join the epicentre of offshore energy innovation – SPE Offshore Europe is your gateway to shaping a sustainable energy landscape.
2–5 September 2025 | P&J Live, Aberdeen, Scotland
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