Equinor Commences Production at Halten East in the Norwegian Sea

Equinor’s Halten East development commences gas production in the Norwegian Sea, supporting Europe's energy security and contributing to Norway’s economy. (Image used for representative purposes only)

Equinor has formally commenced production at its Halten East development project in the Norwegian Sea, a milestone two years since Norwegian authorities approved the development project. The development project will contribute to Europe's increasing demand for gas and improve the energy security of the region.

Project Delivery

Geir Tungesvik, Equinor’s executive vice president for projects, drilling, and procurement, mentioned that they were starting up Halten East at a time when piped gas from Norway was in high demand and crucial for energy security. He also noted that, despite a challenging cost and inflation environment, the project had been completed on time and within the estimated cost.

Halten East Overview: Six Gas Discoveries and Future Plans

Halten East is a connected development located in the Kristin-Åsgard region of the Norwegian Sea. The project includes six gas discoveries and has provisions for three additional prospects. The growth uses available infrastructure and processing facilities at Åsgard B, which is a good means to maximize production. In February 2023, Norwegian authorities approved the development and operation plan (PDO), and the first well, Gamma, is now producing gas.

The first stage of the project comprises six wells from five discoveries, and the second stage will be executed in 2029. The second phase will involve a sidetrack and three additional possible wells. The second phase will also include a sidetrack and up to three more potential wells. Equinor estimates the total investment for both phases at NOK 9 billion.

Gas Reserves and Export to Europe

The gas and condensate reservoirs at Halten East will hold recoverable reserves of around 100 million barrels of oil equivalent. The Åsgard B infrastructure will transport the gas to the Kårstø processing plant, which will then export it to Europe via pipeline.

Also read: Equinor Faces Backlash Over Discrepancy in Sleipner CO2 Storage Claims

Local Economic Contributions and Job Creation

Approximately 90% of the Halten East project investment has gone to Norwegian suppliers, which is a testament to the economic contribution of the project to Norway. The project will also contribute approximately 3,000 person-years of employment each year from 2022 to 2029, generating a significant number of jobs within the region.

In November 2024, Equinor purchased an 11.8% stake in Halten East from Sval Energi, bringing its ownership to 69.5%.