APA 2019 draws applications from 33 operators

Sept. 4, 2019
Thirty-three operators submitted applications to the National Petroleum Directorate (NPD) for petroleum production licenses offshore Norway. The application deadline was Aug. 27.

Thirty-three operators submitted applications to the National Petroleum Directorate (NPD) for petroleum production licenses offshore Norway. The application deadline was Aug. 27. The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy opened the Awards in Predefined Areas (APA) 2019 round on May 29 (OGJ Online, May 29, 2019). Since APA 2018, the APA acreage has been expanded by 5 blocks in the North Sea, 37 blocks in the Norwegian Sea, and 48 blocks in the Barents Sea.

Most of the companies that are active on the Norwegian shelf submitted applications in this year’s APA round. Interest in the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea is comparable to APA 2018, while there is a small decline in the North Sea.

“A great deal of acreage has been awarded over the last 2 years, particularly in the North Sea. That makes it particularly gratifying to see the continued strong interest in new exploration acreage,” said Torgeir Stordal, NPD exploration director.

NPD will evaluate the applications with focus on geological understanding and plans for exploration of the areas. Emphasis also is placed on the companies’ technical expertise and experience, as well as financial strength.

The authorities will announce which companies will be offered ownership interests in APA 2019 early in 2020.