- I am very pleased with the reception of the new system with predefined areas. The Government has in this licensing round decided to announce a large exploration area. Because the Government decided that this area shall be available for the industry also in the coming years, the companies will have an opportunity for long-term planning and activity in these mature parts of the shelf. It is with satisfaction I observe that so many companies are interested in the licensing round, and I think it is very positive that several companies apply for the first time on the Norwegian continental shelf, says Einar Steensnæs, Minister of Petroleum and Energy.

The authorities have received applications from 16 oil companies for the Awards in Predefined Areas (APA) 2003 on the Norwegian continental shelf. The companies have applied as individual companies and as parts of groups.

The companies that have submitted applications are: Acorn, BG, BP, DNO, DONG, ExxonMobil, Gaz de France, Marathon, Norsk Agip, Norsk Hydro, Paladin, Pertra, Revus, Statoil, Talisman and Total.

The aim is to award new production licenses in the APA 2003 in December 2003.

Importance will be attached to secure a balance between the interests connected to the environment, the fisheries, the fish farming industry and the petroleum activities, within a sustainable development.

For more information about the APA 2003 see press release 26 May 2003:
Awards in Predefined areas 2003 – announcement of acreage