A new subsurface model will reassess the recoverable potential of a 1988 Barents Sea gas discovery, with nearby discoveries and future infrastructure among the development considerations.
The Norwegian Offshore Directorate has commissioned Terra Stream Energy to study the Norselhøgda discovery, about 200 km north of Hammerfest. Gas was discovered in well 7226/11-1 in 1988 and production-tested, but the acreage was later relinquished.
The study will develop a model of the discovery’s recoverable resources for sharing with companies. The aim is to help them assess further mapping and the technologies that could support development. The reservoir is tight and is expected to require stimulation.
Norselhøgda is one of several discoveries in the less-explored Barents Sea that the Directorate believes merit further assessment.
Nearby production licence 1313, awarded in the 2025 APA round, could potentially be considered alongside Norselhøgda. Shared development may offer infrastructure benefits, although realising the opportunity depends on infrastructure being developed.
The Directorate says the gas has a low CO₂ content of 0.3%, which could provide flexibility in using existing infrastructure. The study is due to finish towards the end of 2026; the Directorate plans to share the model and hold an industry seminar.
