Norway’s Gas Revolution: Halten East Powers Up Europe’s Energy Future
In a bold move that underscores Norway’s role as Europe’s energy powerhouse, Equinor—the state-owned energy titan—has flipped the switch on the first phase of its Halten East project. This cutting-edge gas and condensate development, nestled in the Norwegian Sea, is a masterclass in leveraging existing infrastructure to deliver high-value energy solutions. With Europe’s energy security hanging in the balance, Halten East couldn’t have come at a better time.
Two years after securing the green light from Norwegian regulators, Equinor (69.5%, operator) has brought the Halten East project online, tapping into six gas discoveries and unlocking a treasure trove of energy reserves. Partnering with Vår Energi (24.6%) and Petoro (5.9%), the project ties into the Kristin-Åsgard area, utilizing the robust Åsgard B platform—a semi-submersible marvel that’s been a cornerstone of Norway’s offshore energy ecosystem since the early 2000s. This isn’t just another gas project; it’s a strategic play to keep Europe’s lights on and industries humming.
Tech Meets Tenacity: Halten East’s Game-Changing Infrastructure
Halten East is a testament to Equinor’s ability to innovate under pressure. By repurposing existing infrastructure, the project has sidestepped the pitfalls of ballooning costs and supply chain snarls. The Åsgard B platform, a floating behemoth stationed in 240-300 meters of water, is the nerve center of this operation. It processes gas and stabilizes condensates, funneling energy through a labyrinth of pipelines to Kårstø, where heavier components are stripped away, and dry gas is shipped to Europe via the Europipe II pipeline.
“We’re delivering energy security at a critical time,” says Geir Tungesvik, Equinor’s EVP for Projects, Drilling, and Procurement. “Halten East is a win on all fronts—on time, on budget, and with a payback period of just one year.” With the first well, Gamma, already online and additional wells set to ramp up production by 2026, Halten East is poised to hit peak output by 2029. The project’s second phase, already in the pipeline, will further bolster Europe’s energy reserves with three additional wells.
Low Emissions, High Impact: A Blueprint for Sustainable Energy
What sets Halten East apart isn’t just its scale—it’s its sustainability. With a CO2 intensity of just 3 kg per barrel of oil equivalent, the project is a shining example of how to balance energy production with environmental responsibility. Equinor’s commitment to low-emission solutions is evident in its use of subsea templates and existing infrastructure, minimizing the project’s carbon footprint while maximizing efficiency.
“Halten East is a blueprint for the future,” says Kjetil Hove, Equinor’s EVP for Development and Production on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS). “By connecting discoveries to our producing hubs, we’re unlocking the full potential of the NCS while keeping costs and emissions low.” With over 30 similar projects slated for development by 2035, Equinor is doubling down on its mission to deliver clean, reliable energy to Europe.
For Vår Energi, Halten East is a cornerstone of its ambitious growth strategy. “This project is a game-changer,” says Torger Rød, Vår Energi’s COO. “Together with Johan Castberg and Balder X, Halten East will help us hit our target of producing over 400 kboepd by late 2025. It’s high-value energy, delivered quickly and sustainably.”
With recoverable reserves estimated at 100 million barrels of oil equivalent and investments of NOK 9 billion ($850 million), Halten East is more than a project—it’s a statement. Norway’s energy sector is firing on all cylinders, and Europe is reaping the benefits.
