Norwegian government rebuked over decision to reopen North Sea gasfields
Summary
The Norwegian government has approved plans to reopen three North Sea gasfields closed since 1998 and allowed exploration in 70 new areas to boost energy supplies amid rising oil and gas prices after conflict in the Middle East. This decision has faced criticism from environmental groups and some political parties but is defended by the government as important for jobs, the economy, and European energy security.Key Facts
- Norway's government approved reopening three North Sea gasfields: Albuskjell, Vest Ekofisk, and Tommeliten Gamma.
- These gasfields were closed in 1998 and are planned to restart by 2028, with production continuing until 2048.
- Norway also authorized exploration licenses in 70 new seabed locations near the North Sea, Barents Sea, and Norwegian Sea.
- The government is spending 19 billion kroner (about £1.5 billion) on reactivating the gasfields.
- Gas from the reopened fields will be piped to Germany; light oil will be sent to the UK.
- Environmental agencies and left-leaning political parties criticized the decision, calling it risky and environmentally harmful.
- The government says the move will create jobs and support energy security in Europe amid global supply problems.
- Norway’s state oil company, Equinor, has recently increased oil and gas production and profits due to high prices and supply disruptions from conflicts in the Middle East.
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