(WO) – Norway has launched its APA 2026 licensing round, adding 70 new exploration blocks across the North Sea, Norwegian Sea and Barents Sea as it continues to expand access to acreage on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS).
The Awards in Predefined Areas (APA) round covers the most mature exploration regions offshore Norway and is intended to provide companies with predictable access to prospective acreage in established petroleum provinces.
The Ministry of Energy said the newly added blocks are distributed across all three offshore regions and include acreage previously nominated by companies for the planned 26th licensing round. As a result, a 26th licensing round will not be held in 2026.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said Norway’s oil and gas sector remains important both domestically and for Europe. “Today, the Government is announcing new exploration acreage in APA in order to further develop the petroleum sector,” he said, adding that continued activity will help support jobs, long-term value creation and Europe’s energy security.
Energy Minister Terje Aasland said annual licensing rounds and stable framework conditions remain central to Norway’s petroleum policy. He also emphasized that companies should continue pursuing larger exploration opportunities in addition to near-infrastructure prospects.
Applications for APA 2026 are due Sept. 1, with awards expected in early 2027.
The move underscores Norway’s continued support for offshore exploration as mature basin activity remains a key part of its long-term oil and gas strategy.
Pictured: Brage field, offshore Norway. Norwegian Offshore Directorate.
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