Equinor Begins Gas Production at Halten East in Norwegian Sea

Equinor

Major Gas Project Comes Online

Equinor has commenced gas production at the Halten East development in the Norwegian Sea. The first operational well, Gamma, became active just two years after the plan for development and operation (PDO) received approval.

Strategic Expansion in the Kristin-Åsgard Area

Halten East, located within the Kristin-Åsgard region, integrates six gas discoveries and plans for three additional prospects. The project utilizes existing infrastructure at Åsgard B, enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Production will roll out in two phases, with the first phase including six wells from five discoveries. The second phase, expected in 2029, may add a sidetrack and three more wells.

Investment and Market Impact

The Halten East project represents a total investment of NOK 9 billion ($850 million). Equinor’s executive vice president, Geir Tungesvik, emphasized the project’s timely and cost-efficient delivery amid inflation challenges. The reservoirs hold approximately 100 million barrels of oil equivalent, with gas transported via pipeline to the Kårstø processing plant and then exported to European markets.

Boosting Local Industry and Employment

Approximately 90% of the project’s investments were allocated to Norwegian suppliers. The development phase is expected to generate 3,000 person-years of employment annually from 2022 to 2029. Equinor, which increased its stake in Halten East to 69.5% in 2024, remains the project’s operator.