EurOil: Norway launches latest APA licensing round

Norway has launched its latest award in pre-defined areas (APA) licensing round, offering operators exploration prospects in the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea.

APA rounds take place on an annual basis, and are focused on plays in areas that are more developed with greater access to existing infrastructure. They contrast with Norway’s numbered frontier rounds, which are centred on exploring frontier zones where risks are higher but potentially also the rewards.

In a statement last week, the energy ministry said it would offer rights to 37 blocks, including 34 in the east of the Barents Sea and three in the northwest of the Norwegian Sea. The deadline for applications is September 3 this year, with awards expected in the first quarter of 2025.

“We need further exploration to make new discoveries that in turn pave the way for investments to maintain production,” said Norwegian Energy Minister Terje Aasland. “This is important to safeguard jobs, income for the community and Europe’s energy security. Access to new, attractive acreage through the APA system is a pillar of the government’s petroleum policy.”

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