The UK strengthened its energy ties with Norway yesterday by signing an agreement to work more with its overseas neighbour on renewables, oil, gas and newer technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS).

Energy Secretary Chris Huhne met with Norwegian Minister for Petroleum and Energy Ola Borten Moe in London to reaffirm the importance of Scandinavian gas to the UK energy security. The two also agreed to encourage more investment in renewables in the North Sea.

Among the agreements included a pledge to coordinate the countries’ views on energy matters in the G20, such as supporting the removal of inefficient subsidies for fossil fuels.

Charles Hendry, the UK Energy Minister said: “As North Sea neighbours, the UK has long enjoyed close and beneficial ties with Norway based on the development of oil and gas. And as renewables and CCS develop further, it is increasingly vital that we work closely in these areas too.”