Norway: 18th licensing round opened

THE GOVERNMENT threw open Norway's 18th licensing round in December, offering 95 blocks and part-blocks in the Norwegian Sea and the North Sea. The deadline for applications is 15 March, with awards promised before the summer. The round is much larger than the three previous rounds and nearly three times as large as the 17th round, which offered 32 blocks. The petroleum and energy minister, Einar Steensnæs, said: 'The announced area contains a variety of challenges, which should provide interesting opportunities for both established and newer companies.' He hoped the result would be increased exploration of frontier areas in the two seas. Applications will be expected to address 'the need fo