TAQA UK is celebrating a major milestone in its North Sea operations, marking 30 years since first oil from the Harding platform.
Located in the Central North Sea, Harding has played a pivotal role in powering homes, fueling industry and playing a vital role in the UK’s economy for three decades.
Originally projected to operate for little more than 20 years, the platform surpassed expectations and will continue production until 2027, demonstrating its remarkable resilience and adaptability. The landmark achievement will be marked by honouring the dedication and expertise of everyone who has contributed to its success over the years.
TAQA UK Managing Director, Sandy Hutchison, said: “This milestone not only marks three decades of safe, efficient operations and technical excellence, but also highlights the enduring legacy of the Harding team’s ingenuity and collaboration in one of the world’s most challenging offshore environments.
“Harding’s story is fundamentally about people – from the offshore crews and engineers to planners, contractors and support teams, both past and present. Their commitment, expertise and teamwork have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. We extend our thanks to everyone involved.
“Over the past 30 years, Harding has supported thousands of skilled jobs, enhanced UK energy security, and set the standard for responsible asset stewardship. We’re proud of Harding’s legacy and remain committed to safe, reliable late-life operations and a responsible approach to decommissioning.”
Discovered in 1988 and operational since 1996, Harding is located about 200 miles north-east of Aberdeen and uses a specialised jack-up platform mounted on a steel gravity base for storage. In its 30 years of operation, Harding has produced more than 317 million barrels of oil equivalent, making a significant and lasting contribution to the UK’s energy landscape