Norway is intensifying its offshore petroleum activities to strengthen European energy security amid ongoing global supply uncertainties.

Energy Minister Terje Aasland has underscored the importance of expanding, rather than reducing, operations on the Norwegian continental shelf.

On 5 May 2026, the Norwegian authorities announced the APA 2026 licensing round, offering up to 70 new exploration blocks: 38 in the Barents Sea, 22 in the North Sea, and 10 in the Norwegian Sea.

Applications are invited until 1 September 2026, with awards scheduled for early 2027.

This move continues Norway’s strategy of sustaining long-term production and attracting investment from international oil companies.In a separate development, plans were confirmed to reopen three historic North Sea gas fields like Albuskjell, Vest Ekofisk, and Tommeliten Gamma, which have been closed since 1998.

Operator ConocoPhillips, together with partners, is set to invest approximately €1.8bn, with production potentially resuming by 2028.

The fields could deliver significant gas volumes to markets in Germany and the United Kingdom through to 2048.

Additionally, Equinor has recently started production from the Eirin field via a subsea tie-back to the Gina Krog and Sleipner installations, adding further gas supply to Europe.

These initiatives reflect Norway’s response to tightening global energy markets.

By maximising output from mature and frontier areas, the country aims to provide reliable supplies while balancing its energy transition commitments.

Industry observers note that heightened geopolitical tensions have reinforced the role of Norwegian gas in stabilising European energy prices.

The developments are expected to generate substantial economic activity and support thousands of jobs across the Norwegian supply chain.