---
title: UK oil & gas media reputation tracker – September 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Oil & Gas Producers
period: September 2026
coverage_start: '2026-09-01'
coverage_end: '2026-09-30'
date_published: '2026-10-04'
last_updated: '2026-10-04'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 828
mentions: 706
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/data.json
summary: BP had the highest average monthly share of coverage (34.0%) among 10 companies
  in UK earned media from 1 September 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Shell (20.0%)
  and Ithaca Energy (12.0%).
---

# UK oil & gas media reputation tracker: September 2026 (1 September 2026–30 September 2026)

> BP had the highest average monthly share of coverage (34.0%) among 10 companies in UK earned media from 1 September 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Shell (20.0%) and Ithaca Energy (12.0%). Serica Energy had the most favourable net tone (+49). Omniscan analysed 828 articles containing 706 mentions of the companies tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09

## UK Oil & Gas Producers ranking by share of coverage, September 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | BP | 34.0% | 240 | 36% | 48% | 16% | +20 |
| 2 | Shell | 20.0% | 141 | 47% | 39% | 14% | +33 |
| 3 | Ithaca Energy | 12.0% | 85 | 52% | 32% | 16% | +35 |
| 4 | Equinor | 8.5% | 60 | 27% | 58% | 15% | +12 |
| 5 | Harbour Energy | 8.2% | 58 | 52% | 43% | 5% | +47 |
| 6 | EnQuest | 7.1% | 50 | 28% | 72% | 0% | +28 |
| 7 | Serica Energy | 5.8% | 41 | 51% | 46% | 3% | +49 |
| 8 | TotalEnergies | 2.1% | 15 | 33% | 54% | 13% | +20 |
| 9 | NEO Energy | 1.7% | 12 | 8% | 92% | 0% | +8 |
| 10 | Apache | 0.6% | 4 | 0% | 25% | 75% | −75 |

## Companies in detail

### BP

**BP leads September coverage amid board and portfolio changes**

BP ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (34.0%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 240 mentions and a net tone of +20.

BP appointed Ian Tyler as permanent chair following Albert Manifold’s removal, while Amanda Blanc was set to leave the board after a successor is appointed. BP ranked first with 240 mentions, representing 34.0% of tracked-company mentions. Leadership, strategy and M&A accounted for 96 mentions, closely followed by financial results and shareholder returns with 94; production and operations contributed 18, and decommissioning and divestment 12. Further leadership coverage included the appointment of Ben Monaghan to lead mergers, acquisitions and business development from early 2027. CNBC reported HSBC’s upgrade of BP to buy, citing expectations of faster deleveraging and less reliance on asset disposals. Operational reporting included an Aker Solutions framework contract across BP’s North Sea portfolio and a Baker Hughes stimulation contract awarded while BP pursued a sale of its UK North Sea assets.

Key messages:

- BP accounted for 34% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #1 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Financial Results & Shareholder Returns.
- 240 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Ian Tyler’s appointment as permanent chair — Reuters

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 40.0% of BP's coverage (theme index 3.73, net tone −8)
- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 39.2% of BP's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone +51)
- Production & Operations: 7.5% of BP's coverage (theme index 1, net tone +89)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, oedigital.com: [Ian Tyler Appointed bp Chair](https://www.oedigital.com/news/542640-ian-tyler-appointed-bp-chair). BP appointed Ian Tyler as permanent chair after he had served as interim chair since May 2026. Senior independent director Dame Amanda Blanc will leave the board after a successor is appointed.
- 4 September 2026, offshore-energy.biz: [BP tasks Baker Hughes with production enhancement across UK North Sea assets](https://www.offshore-energy.biz/bp-tasks-baker-hughes-with-production-enhancement-across-uk-north-sea-assets/). BP awarded Baker Hughes a contract for offshore well-stimulation services across its UK North Sea portfolio. The work covers new well development and enhanced recovery from mature UKCS fields.
- 4 September 2026, worldoil.com: [Baker Hughes wins bp well stimulation contract for UK North Sea](https://www.worldoil.com/news/2026/9/4/baker-hughes-wins-bp-well-stimulation-contract-for-uk-north-sea/). Baker Hughes has won a contract to provide offshore well-stimulation services across BP's UK North Sea portfolio. The work is intended to support new well development, enhanced recovery and production optimisation at mature fields.

Notable negative coverage:

- 2 September 2026, irishnews.com: [BP names new chairman after removing Albert Manifold over conduct](https://www.irishnews.com/news/uk/bp-names-new-chairman-after-removing-albert-manifold-over-conduct-OH3MDZLGYJP5DADKBDKEKFPLWI/). BP appointed Ian Tyler as chair following Albert Manifold's removal over conduct, oversight and governance concerns. The appointment comes during a wider leadership reshuffle at the company.
- 28 September 2026, theguardian.com: [Do the British Museum's links with Palantir and BP bring it into disrepute? | Letter](https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2026/sep/28/do-the-british-museums-links-with-palantir-and-bp-bring-it-into-disrepute). A letter criticises the British Museum's association with BP and argues that cultural institutions should move away from fossil-fuel sponsorship. It also criticises past government support for oil and gas producers, including BP, on climate grounds.
- 7 September 2026, ft.com: [Letter: Science Museum is wrong to 'capitulate' to activists](https://www.ft.com/content/56aa168b-c5e8-4f24-8faf-7c358f3add9a). A letter criticises the Science Museum's decision to end its sponsorship relationship with BP and argues that the company should remain a safe, clean and profitable oil and gas producer. It also challenges UK net-zero goals.

- [BP deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=bp&view=deep-dive)
- [BP PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/bp.pdf)

### Shell

**Analyst upgrades and shareholder returns frame Shell’s second-place visibility**

Shell ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (20.0%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 141 mentions and a net tone of +33.

Morgan Stanley upgraded Shell to Overweight and named it its top European energy pick, while Barclays raised its price target. Shell ranked second with 141 mentions and a 20.0% share of tracked-company mentions. Financial results and shareholder returns led the subject mix with 74 mentions, followed by North Sea licensing and exploration with 46, windfall tax and fiscal policy with seven, and leadership, strategy and M&A with six. The Financial Times reported that Shell’s acquisition of ARC Resources was expected to add production and improve free cash flow from 2027, alongside upstream president Peter Costello’s £1.17 million share sale. Separate reporting covered industry calls for government approval of projects including Jackdaw and Rosebank. Other prominent developments included Shell’s continuing buybacks and interim dividend, the $715 million sale of a Rhode Island power plant and analyst earnings upgrades linked to gas, oil and expected ARC Resources production.

Key messages:

- Shell accounted for 20% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #2 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Financial Results & Shareholder Returns and North Sea Licensing & Exploration.
- 141 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Morgan Stanley’s upgrade of Shell and Barclays’ higher price target — The Armchair Trader

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 52.5% of Shell's coverage (theme index 1.39, net tone +61)
- North Sea Licensing & Exploration: 32.6% of Shell's coverage (theme index 3.41, net tone +4)
- Windfall Tax & Fiscal Policy: 5.0% of Shell's coverage (theme index 1.17, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 8 September 2026, thearmchairtrader.com: [Broker Tips: Shell, Admiral, Barclays, NatWest, Reckitt Benckiser](https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/uk-shares/broker-tips/admiral-shell-barclays-natwest-reckitt-benckiser/). Morgan Stanley upgraded Shell to Overweight and named it its top European energy pick, citing improved visibility of production growth through 2030. Barclays also raised its Shell price target while maintaining an Overweight rating.
- 11 September 2026, ft.com: [Directors’ Deals: Shell’s upstream boss takes advantage of valuation uplift](https://www.ft.com/content/cde3c168-5522-4d38-a6c3-454ef36aa0d4). Shell's acquisition of ARC Resources is expected to add production and improve free cash flow from 2027. Its upstream president Peter Costello sold £1.17 million of Shell shares after the company's valuation rose.
- 4 September 2026, oilprice.com: [UK Poised to Approve Jackdaw Gas Field as Energy Costs Soar](https://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/UK-Poised-to-Approve-Jackdaw-Gas-Field-as-Energy-Costs-Soar.html). The UK is reportedly preparing to approve Shell and Equinor’s Jackdaw gas development following its reapplication under tougher climate-consenting rules. The article also discusses Rosebank and the wider case for reviving North Sea production amid high energy prices.

Notable negative coverage:

- 14 September 2026, lse.co.uk: [UK government hosts meeting with business leaders to discuss growth](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/uk-government-hosts-meeting-with-business-leaders-to-discuss-growth-lb02xuog23ccegz.html). The UK government is reportedly delaying a decision on bringing Shell-backed Jackdaw gas field online until after a by-election. BP and Shell executives are also due to attend a government business-growth meeting.
- 18 September 2026, theconversation.com: [Granting a new gasfield licence does not guarantee energy security](https://theconversation.com/granting-a-new-gasfield-licence-does-not-guarantee-energy-security-291324). Commentary argues that approving Shell's Jackdaw North Sea gasfield would not provide a durable UK energy-security strategy and conflicts with climate objectives. It calls on DESNZ to prioritise repurposing depleted oil and gas fields for low-carbon energy storage.
- 3 September 2026, politicshome.com: [North Sea oil is a test of leadership for Labour and they're already failing](https://www.politicshome.com/opinion/article/north-sea-oil-test-leadership-labour-theyre-already-failing). Green Party MP Carla Denyer argues that Labour should reject further North Sea drilling, including Rosebank and Jackdaw, and strengthen windfall-tax collection. The commentary criticises Shell over alleged tax treatment and its role in the Adura joint venture.

- [Shell deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=shell&view=deep-dive)
- [Shell PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/shell.pdf)

### Ithaca Energy

**FTSE 100 entry anchors Ithaca Energy’s September profile**

Ithaca Energy ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (12.0%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 85 mentions and a net tone of +35.

Reuters reported that Ithaca Energy would enter the FTSE 100 following FTSE Russell’s index review, leading September’s coverage alongside reporting on its financial performance and shareholder returns. Ithaca recorded 85 mentions and a 12.0% share of tracked-company mentions, placing it third among the measured producers. Financial results and shareholder returns dominated the subject mix with 56 mentions, supported by record quarterly production, stronger first-half cash generation and dividend guidance of $500m–$530m. North Sea licensing and exploration accounted for 12 mentions, including scrutiny of the revised environmental consents required for Rosebank. Production and operations included plans for additional North Sea wells, while decommissioning and divestment coverage included Ithaca’s five-year environmental and marine-monitoring contract with Viridien for the Greater Stella Area. Shore Capital’s buy rating and 340p target added further investor-focused coverage, citing Ithaca’s scale, cash generation and dividend yield.

Key messages:

- Ithaca Energy accounted for 12% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #3 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Financial Results & Shareholder Returns and North Sea Licensing & Exploration.
- 85 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- FTSE 100 entry following FTSE Russell’s index review — Reuters

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 65.9% of Ithaca Energy's coverage (theme index 1.76, net tone +57)
- North Sea Licensing & Exploration: 14.1% of Ithaca Energy's coverage (theme index 1, net tone −42)
- Production & Operations: 4.7% of Ithaca Energy's coverage (theme index 0.6, net tone +75)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, reuters.com: [EasyJet, Ithaca Energy to join FTSE 100 index](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/easyjet-ithaca-energy-join-ftse-100-index-2026-09-02/). Ithaca Energy and EasyJet will join the FTSE 100 following FTSE Russell's index review, replacing Entain and Persimmon.
- 3 September 2026, energyvoice.com: [Ithaca Energy promoted to FTSE 100 index](https://www.energyvoice.com/oilandgas/north-sea/603369/ithaca-ftse100/). Ithaca Energy's FTSE 100 promotion follows positive quarterly results, increased dividend guidance and North Sea M&A activity. The company is also advancing Rosebank and Cambo while considering further acquisitions.
- 3 September 2026, ca.finance.yahoo.com: [Ithaca Energy: What has powered it into the FTSE 100 this week?](https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/ithaca-energy-powered-ftse-100-065600150.html). Ithaca Energy's forthcoming FTSE 100 inclusion follows a strong first half marked by record quarterly production, a return to profit and higher dividend guidance. The company also reduced leverage and is advancing more than 200 million boe of resources toward investment decisions.

Notable negative coverage:

- 30 September 2026, telegraph.co.uk: [Polanski urges Miliband to block Rosebank oil field over Israel links](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/09/30/polanski-urges-miliband-to-block-rosebank-oil-field-over-is/). Green Party leader Zack Polanski urged the Government to block Rosebank and Cambo over Ithaca Energy’s ownership links to Delek Group and alleged Israel settlement ties. Ithaca said it meets high governance standards and is a major North Sea investor, while Delek disputes its UN database listing.
- 14 September 2026, thenational.scot: [Relentless negativity towards the SNP won't advance our cause](https://www.thenational.scot/politics/26550048.relentless-negativity-towards-snp-wont-advance-cause/). A letter urges the government not to approve Rosebank, noting Ithaca Energy's 20% stake and its majority ownership by Delek. The article frames approval as enabling profits from Scottish waters to flow to Israel.
- 13 September 2026, thenational.scot: [Andy Burnham urged to blacklist Scottish firm linked to illegal Israeli settlement](https://www.thenational.scot/news/26545899.andy-burnham-urged-blacklist-aberdeen-firm-israeli-settlements/). Humza Yousaf has urged the UK Government to prevent Delek Group subsidiary Ithaca Energy from participating in Rosebank, citing Delek's alleged links to Israeli settlements. Ministers are expected to decide on the resubmitted Rosebank application following consultation.

- [Ithaca Energy deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=ithacaenergy&view=deep-dive)
- [Ithaca Energy PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/ithacaenergy.pdf)

### Equinor

**North Sea approval warnings shape Equinor’s September profile**

Equinor ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (8.5%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 60 mentions and a net tone of +12.

Equinor recorded 60 mentions and an 8.5% share of tracked-company mentions, placing it fourth in September. The subject mix was led by North Sea licensing and exploration with 37 Equinor mentions, followed by financial results and shareholder returns with seven, energy transition and low carbon with six, and windfall tax and fiscal policy with four. The Telegraph and The Scotsman reported Equinor’s warnings that delayed decisions on Rosebank and Jackdaw could accelerate the departure of North Sea supply-chain businesses and skilled workers. A TradingView weekly recap covered Equinor’s third 2026 share-buyback tranche and the expected UK approval of the Adura/Jackdaw gas project. Wider reporting from Reuters and The Independent presented changing expectations about the timing of UK decisions on Jackdaw and Rosebank, but addressed broader political and sector developments rather than confirmed developments attributable to Equinor.

Key messages:

- Equinor accounted for 8.5% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #4 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on North Sea Licensing & Exploration and Financial Results & Shareholder Returns.
- 60 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Warning that delayed approvals could accelerate a North Sea exodus — The Telegraph

Leading themes:

- North Sea Licensing & Exploration: 61.7% of Equinor's coverage (theme index 6.32, net tone +11)
- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 11.7% of Equinor's coverage (theme index 0.27, net tone −29)
- Energy Transition & Low Carbon: 10.0% of Equinor's coverage (theme index 2.48, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 7 September 2026, tradingview.com: [Weekly Recap: Third 2026 buyback tranche and Adura/Jackdaw UK approval expected](https://www.tradingview.com/news/tradingview:6b202d72a85c5:0-weekly-recap-third-2026-buyback-tranche-and-adura-jackdaw-uk-approval-expected/). Equinor’s weekly recap covers its third 2026 share-buyback tranche and the expected UK approval of the Adura/Jackdaw gas project. The project could begin production in winter and peak at about 40,000 boe/d.
- 21 September 2026, indexbox.io: [Flylogix Cross-Border Drone Flight Surveys Equinor's Statfjord B Methane Emissions - News and Statistics](https://www.indexbox.io/blog/flylogix-completes-first-civilian-cross-border-offshore-drone-flight-for-methane-survey/). Flylogix flew an uncrewed aircraft from Shetland to survey methane emissions at Equinor's Statfjord B platform in Norwegian waters. The mission was described as the first civilian cross-border offshore drone flight from the UK and forms part of ongoing emissions-monitoring work.

- [Equinor deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=equinor&view=deep-dive)
- [Equinor PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/equinor.pdf)

### Harbour Energy

**BASF stake sale anchors Harbour Energy’s September profile**

Harbour Energy ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (8.2%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 58 mentions and a net tone of +47.

Morningstar reported BASF’s block sale, which reduced its Harbour Energy holding to about 16%. Harbour ranked fifth with 58 mentions, representing 8.2% of tracked-company mentions. Financial results and shareholder returns dominated the subject mix with 29 references, ahead of energy transition and low carbon with 12, strategy and M&A with six, and decommissioning and divestment with five. Morningstar reported Harbour’s agreement to repurchase about $200 million of shares from BASF, which would be cancelled as part of its wider buyback programme. Other developments included upgraded production and free-cash-flow guidance, retrospective coverage of the February completion of the LLOG acquisition establishing a US Gulf of Mexico position, and reporting on the completed disposal of the Vietnamese business. TGS4C covered Harbour’s agreement with Flotation Energy to assess floating-wind-powered electrification of North Sea oil and gas assets.

Key messages:

- Harbour Energy accounted for 8.2% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #5 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Financial Results & Shareholder Returns and Energy Transition & Low Carbon.
- 58 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- BASF’s stake sale reduced its Harbour Energy holding to about 16% — Morningstar.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 50.0% of Harbour Energy's coverage (theme index 1.25, net tone +52)
- Energy Transition & Low Carbon: 20.7% of Harbour Energy's coverage (theme index 6.7, net tone +83)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 10.3% of Harbour Energy's coverage (theme index 0.48, net tone +17)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 September 2026, morningstar.com: [Harbour Energy to Buy Back Up to $200 Million in Own Shares From Germany's BASF](https://www.morningstar.com/news/dow-jones/202609107477/harbour-energy-to-buy-back-up-to-200-million-in-own-shares-from-germanys-basf). Harbour Energy agreed to repurchase about $200 million of its shares from major shareholder BASF, subject to BASF's proposed share placing completing. The repurchased shares will be cancelled and the transaction forms part of Harbour's wider buyback programme.
- 15 September 2026, thearmchairtrader.com: [Broker Tips: Antofagasta, Renishaw, Harbour Energy, Victrex, Housebuilders](https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/uk-shares/broker-tips/antofagasta-renishaw-harbour-energy-victrex-housebuilders/). Goldman Sachs upgraded Harbour Energy to Buy and raised its target price to 350p, citing stronger European gas-price expectations and improved free-cash-flow forecasts. The broker also highlighted Harbour's $250 million share buyback.
- 7 September 2026, energyvoice.com: [Viking carbon capture plans a ‘blueprint’ for UK](https://www.energyvoice.com/renewables-energy-transition/ccs/603504/viking-carbon-capture-plans-a-blueprint-for-uk/). A University of Aberdeen study found Harbour Energy's Viking South depleted gas field is suitable for long-term CO2 storage. The UK government's Track 2-backed Viking CCS project could store up to 88 million tonnes of CO2 and support Humber industry.

Notable negative coverage:

- 11 September 2026, reuters.com: [Harbour Energy's top shareholder further cuts stake to 16% in discounted share sale](https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/harbour-energys-top-shareholder-further-cuts-stake-16-discounted-share-sale-2026-09-11/). Harbour Energy's largest shareholder, BASF, has cut its holding to 16% through the company's largest-ever block share sale. Harbour's shares fell by more than 3% following the discounted transaction.
- 29 September 2026, kalkinemedia.com: [Could The North Sea Tax Debate Reshape Harbour Energy (LSE:HBR) Ahead Of The Budget?](https://kalkinemedia.com/uk/stocks/oil-gas/could-the-north-sea-tax-debate-reshape-harbour-energy-lsehbr-ahead-of-the-budget). The article examines how potential replacement or reform of the Energy Profits Levy ahead of the UK Budget could affect Harbour Energy and North Sea investment. It says Harbour has cut UK jobs and reduced North Sea investment while diversifying internationally in response to the fiscal regime.
- 11 September 2026, lse.co.uk: [WINNERS & LOSERS: XP Power jumps on broker upgrade; THG extends losses](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/winners-losers-xp-power-jumps-on-broker-upgrade-thg-extends-losses-bxxbeqrfweolqig.html). Harbour Energy shares fell 2.9% after BASF sold 133 million shares for GBP353.8 million. Harbour agreed to buy 53 million of those shares for cancellation as part of its ongoing buyback programme.

- [Harbour Energy deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=harbourenergy&view=deep-dive)
- [Harbour Energy PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/harbourenergy.pdf)

### EnQuest

**Acquisition ambitions and results define EnQuest’s September profile**

EnQuest ranked 6th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (7.1%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 50 mentions and a net tone of +28.

EnQuest’s September coverage led with CEO Amjad Bseisu confirming interest in BP’s UK North Sea portfolio, while first-half reporting covered EnQuest’s continuing Malaysian acquisition. The producer ranked sixth, with 50 mentions representing 7.1% of tracked-company mentions. Leadership, strategy and M&A was the largest subject area with 19 mentions, followed by financial results and shareholder returns with 14 and production and operations with 11. First-half reporting included adjusted free cash flow of $71.3 million, a return to adjusted pre-tax profit and higher production, alongside increased net debt following refinancing and acquisition-related payments. Operational reporting centred on the five-week Magnus outage, narrower full-year production guidance and work on the Ninian Bypass Project and polymer flooding at Kraken. Further coverage addressed EnQuest’s call for a stable UK fiscal framework and work to connect Sullom Voe Terminal to the grid, which the company said could cut terminal emissions by 90%.

Key messages:

- EnQuest accounted for 7.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #6 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Financial Results & Shareholder Returns.
- 50 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- EnQuest’s interest in BP’s North Sea assets — CNBC

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 38.0% of EnQuest's coverage (theme index 1.96, net tone +53)
- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 28.0% of EnQuest's coverage (theme index 0.67, net tone +7)
- Production & Operations: 22.0% of EnQuest's coverage (theme index 3.44, net tone +9)

Notable positive coverage:

- 3 September 2026, ua.news: [EnQuest interested in buying BP assets in the North Sea](https://ua.news/en/energetika/enquest-zatsikavlena-u-kupivli-aktiviv-bp-u-pivnichnomu-mori). EnQuest CEO Amjad Bseisu confirmed interest in acquiring BP's UK North Sea portfolio, which BP began marketing for sale in July. The potential deal would include BP-operated production hubs and could materially reduce BP's North Sea presence.
- 3 September 2026, upstreamonline.com: [$833 million Malaysia acquisition to transform EnQuest, CEO says](https://www.upstreamonline.com/field-development/-833-million-malaysia-acquisition-to-transform-enquest-ceo-says/2-1-2038656). EnQuest’s chief executive discussed growth ambitions and the importance of a more supportive UK North Sea policy environment.
- 3 September 2026, cnbc.com: [Enquest CEO: Interested in BP's North Sea assets](https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/03/enquest-ceo-interested-in-bps-north-sea-assets.html). EnQuest CEO Amjad Bseisu confirmed that the company is interested in BP's North Sea assets while discussing EnQuest's first-half earnings.

- [EnQuest deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=enquest&view=deep-dive)
- [EnQuest PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/enquest.pdf)

### Serica Energy

**Main Market plan anchors Serica Energy’s September profile**

Serica Energy ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (5.8%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 41 mentions and a net tone of +49.

Serica Energy’s planned transfer from AIM to the London Stock Exchange Main Market was the most prominent development in September’s coverage, reflecting its scale, cash generation and enlarged UK North Sea portfolio. It ranked seventh with 41 mentions, representing 5.8% of tracked-company mentions. Production and operations was the largest subject area with 13 mentions, followed by leadership, strategy and M&A with 10, and financial results and shareholder returns with seven. Operational stories included completed Triton FPSO repairs, the expected production restart and a Wood framework intended to extend Bruce platform production into the next decade. Financial coverage reported higher first-half production and a move from net debt to net cash, while noting Serica’s withdrawal from the proposed Pharos Energy acquisition. Other September coverage revisited the decision to decommission Orlando after a subsea pump failure and reported confirmation that EnQuest would not make a formal offer.

Key messages:

- Serica Energy accounted for 5.8% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #7 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Production & Operations and Leadership, Strategy & M&A.
- 41 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Serica Energy plans move from AIM to Main Market — lse.co.uk

Leading themes:

- Production & Operations: 31.7% of Serica Energy's coverage (theme index 5.27, net tone +46)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 24.4% of Serica Energy's coverage (theme index 1.19, net tone +50)
- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 17.1% of Serica Energy's coverage (theme index 0.4, net tone +71)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 September 2026, dailybusinessgroup.co.uk: [Serica Energy makes move to LSE’s main market](https://dailybusinessgroup.co.uk/2026/09/serica-energy-makes-move-to-lses-main-market/). Serica Energy intends to move from AIM to the London Stock Exchange main market, with admission expected before the end of October. It said the switch reflects its growth, cash generation and position as a leading UK Continental Shelf independent producer.
- 9 September 2026, proactiveinvestors.co.uk: [Serica Energy gets Jefferies 'buy' rating and 320p price target](https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk/companies/news/1098300/serica-energy-gets-jefferies-buy-rating-and-320p-price-target-1098300.html). Jefferies reinstated Serica Energy coverage with a buy rating and 320p price target, citing production growth prospects including the Spirit Energy acquisition. The broker reduced near-term production and free-cash-flow forecasts because of Triton maintenance and higher planned investment.
- 28 September 2026, energyvoice.com: [Serica confirms move to London main market](https://www.energyvoice.com/oilandgas/604388/serica-confirms-move-to-london-main-market/). Serica Energy confirmed plans to transfer its listing from AIM to the London Stock Exchange main market before the end of October. The UK North Sea producer cited growing output, free cash flow, a net-cash position and capacity for further acquisitions.

Notable negative coverage:

- 2 September 2026, kalkinemedia.com: [Is Serica Energy Being Judged On Gas Rather Than Crude As London Breaks For The Holiday?](https://kalkinemedia.com/uk/stocks/oil-gas/is-serica-energy-being-judged-on-gas-rather-than-crude-as-london-breaks-for-the-holiday). Serica Energy is discussed as a gas-weighted North Sea producer whose earnings drivers differ from oil-focused operators. The article says the wider oil and gas sector weakened after crude prices retreated, while gas producers remain influenced by European demand, storage and weather.

- [Serica Energy deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=sericaenergy&view=deep-dive)
- [Serica Energy PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/sericaenergy.pdf)

### TotalEnergies

**Analyst rating changes anchor TotalEnergies’ September coverage**

TotalEnergies ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (2.1%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 15 mentions and a net tone of +20.

TotalEnergies’ September coverage included contrasting analyst rating changes, with HSBC upgrading the company to Buy and JPMorgan downgrading it to Neutral, as reported by Yahoo Finance UK. TotalEnergies recorded 15 mentions, representing 2.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranking eighth among tracked companies. Financial results and shareholder returns dominated the subject mix with seven mentions, compared with three each for energy transition and low carbon, and leadership, strategy and M&A, plus one for windfall tax and fiscal policy. HSBC raised its oil, gas and refining assumptions, while JPMorgan argued that TotalEnergies’ industrial strengths were already reflected in the valuation. Wider coverage included Energy Voice reporting on a floating-wind pilot at Culzean that was initially led by TotalEnergies.

Key messages:

- TotalEnergies accounted for 2.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #8 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Financial Results & Shareholder Returns and Energy Transition & Low Carbon.
- 15 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Culzean set to test oil electrification plans amid headwinds — Energy Voice

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Shareholder Returns: 46.7% of TotalEnergies's coverage (theme index 1.15, net tone 0)
- Energy Transition & Low Carbon: 20.0% of TotalEnergies's coverage (theme index 4.77, net tone +67)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 20.0% of TotalEnergies's coverage (theme index 0.97, net tone +33)

Notable positive coverage:

- 25 September 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [HSBC Upgrades BP and TotalEnergies as Oil and Gas Price Forecasts Rise](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/hsbc-upgrades-bp-totalenergies-oil-082530526.html). HSBC upgraded BP and TotalEnergies to Buy after raising oil and gas price assumptions, lifting earnings and cash-flow forecasts. It also retained a Buy rating for Shell.

Notable negative coverage:

- 23 September 2026, news.futunn.com: [EU Oil & Gas: Valuation and Sensitivity Screening; Upgrade BP to Overweight, Downgrade TotalEnergies to Neutral](https://news.futunn.com/en/post/1000063188/eu-oil-gas-valuation-and-sensitivity-screening-upgrade-bp-to). JPMorgan upgraded BP to Overweight, citing expected deleveraging, restructuring-driven earnings growth and prospective shareholder returns. It downgraded TotalEnergies to Neutral on valuation, Middle East exposure and French windfall-tax risk, while retaining positive views on Shell.

- [TotalEnergies deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=totalenergies&view=deep-dive)
- [TotalEnergies PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/totalenergies.pdf)

### NEO Energy

**Culzean electrification and reported BP interest frame NEO Energy’s September profile**

NEO Energy ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (1.7%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 12 mentions and a net tone of +8.

Independent Energy Voice reporting led with the installation of a 3 MW floating wind turbine intended to supply about 20% of the Culzean platform’s power demand. Unite also reported that NEO NEXT+ workers at the Flotta oil terminal secured an enhanced pay deal after voting for strike action. NEO Energy recorded 12 mentions, giving it a 1.7% share of tracked-company mentions and ninth place among the cohort. Decommissioning and divestment was the largest subject area with five mentions, while production and operations and leadership, strategy and M&A each accounted for two. Reports from TradingView, LSE and Kalkine Media identified NEO NEXT+ among potential buyers of BP’s UK North Sea business, which was valued at about £2 billion. Context: wider sector articles also referred to NEO NEXT+ through EnQuest’s Ninian Bypass Project and its role in carrying Jersey Oil & Gas through the Buchan development.

Key messages:

- NEO Energy accounted for 1.7% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #9 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Decommissioning & Divestment and Production & Operations.
- 12 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Culzean floating-wind electrification pilot — Energy Voice

Leading themes:

- Decommissioning & Divestment: 41.7% of NEO Energy's coverage (theme index 9.33, net tone 0)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 16.7% of NEO Energy's coverage (theme index 0.8, net tone 0)
- Production & Operations: 16.7% of NEO Energy's coverage (theme index 2.27, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 September 2026, unitetheunion.org: [Neo Next workers at Flotta oil terminal secure pay rise after strike threat](https://www.unitetheunion.org/news-events/news/2026/september/neo-next-workers-at-flotta-oil-terminal-secure-pay-rise-after-strike-threat). Workers employed by NEO NEXT+ at the Flotta oil terminal accepted an enhanced pay deal after voting for strike action. The revised package provides an approximately 5% rise for most workers, with proportionately larger increases for the lowest paid.

- [NEO Energy deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=neoenergy&view=deep-dive)
- [NEO Energy PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/neoenergy.pdf)

### Apache

**Apache coverage centres on North Sea pay dispute**

Apache ranked 10th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (0.6%) in the UK Oil & Gas Producers benchmark for September 2026, with 4 mentions and a net tone of −75.

The Morning Star reported that Unite would ballot around 160 Apache offshore workers over a pay offer described by the union as a real-terms cut and threats concerning back pay. Unite also reported that the ballot covered workers across seven assets associated with Apache’s Forties and Beryl fields. Apache accounted for 0.6% of tracked-company mentions, placing it tenth among the cohort in September. Two of its four mentions concerned the pay dispute, while fiscal policy and decommissioning accounted for one each. Context: Inspenet reported that Well-Safe Solutions and NMC Energy had expanded their alliance to support decommissioning work on Apache’s Beryl and Forties fields. Context: Energy Voice covered OEUK’s proposals for replacing the Energy Profits Levy and unlocking further UK offshore investment.

Key messages:

- Apache accounted for 0.6% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #10 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Other and Windfall Tax & Fiscal Policy.
- 4 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Unite’s ballot of Apache workers over its pay offer — Morning Star.

Leading themes:

- Other: 50.0% of Apache's coverage (theme index 87.75, net tone −100)
- Windfall Tax & Fiscal Policy: 25.0% of Apache's coverage (theme index 5.85, net tone −100)
- Decommissioning & Divestment: 25.0% of Apache's coverage (theme index 5.01, net tone 0)

Notable negative coverage:

- 2 September 2026, morningstaronline.co.uk: [Unite to ballot Apache workers over 'unacceptable' pay offer](https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/unite-ballot-apache-workers-over-unacceptable-pay-offer). Unite will ballot around 160 Apache offshore workers over a pay offer it says amounts to a real-terms cut and threats concerning back pay. The dispute covers workers on Apache's Forties and Beryl field assets in the North Sea.
- 2 September 2026, unitetheunion.org: [Workers in strike ballot with North Sea operator Apache](https://www.unitetheunion.org/news-events/news/2026/september/workers-in-strike-ballot-with-north-sea-operator-apache). Unite is balloting approximately 160 Apache North Sea workers for strike action over below-inflation pay offers and potential withholding of back pay. The ballot covers workers on seven assets associated with the Forties and Beryl fields.

- [Apache deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09?entity=apache&view=deep-dive)
- [Apache PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09/reports/apache.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Oil & Gas Producers editions

- [UK oil & gas media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK oil & gas media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-h1.md)
- [UK oil & gas media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-07.md)
- [UK oil & gas media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-08.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK oil & gas media reputation tracker", September 2026 (1 September 2026–30 September 2026), published 4 October 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-oil-gas-2026-09