Onshore Oil and Gas Infrastructure Decommissioning – A Comparative Analysis With Global Legal Frameworks, Focusing on Uganda
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Date
2024-04-26
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
The lifecycle of oil and gas infrastructure entails multiple stages, including exploration, development, production, and decommissioning. While exploration and production often command attention, decommissioning, though less glamorous, poses significant technical and legal challenges, sometimes surpassing those encountered in earlier phases. The legal framework governing decommissioning, particularly regarding environmental protection, funding, and ongoing liabilities, is deemed crucial for mature oil and gas provinces.
This dissertation examines the potential implications of various global legal frameworks for onshore oil and gas decommissioning on Uganda's emerging sector. Despite Uganda's limited experience in the industry, its ratification of the 1958 Geneva Convention on decommissioning reflects an initial engagement with international standards. Nonetheless, gaps and deficiencies in Uganda's domestic petroleum laws and oil and gas policies underscore the imperative for comprehensive regulatory frameworks.
Drawing on diverse global experiences and legal approaches, this study critically assesses the applicability of international best practices to Uganda's specific context. Through comparative analysis, it evaluates the potential benefits and challenges of adopting elements of global decommissioning regimes in Uganda. While acknowledging the distinctiveness of each regulatory framework, the study highlights opportunities for Uganda to learn from global experiences and tailor international best practices to address its unique challenges effectively.
Ultimately, the research advocates for the development of a robust and contextually appropriate legal framework for onshore oil and gas infrastructure decommissioning in Uganda. By leveraging comparative analysis and international standards, Uganda can establish a framework that ensures environmental protection, financial sustainability, and effective management of decommissioning activities, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of its oil and gas sector.
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This is a dissertation