Austrian energy company OMV is advancing its exploration efforts in the Norwegian Sea following its significant 2024 gas discovery. The Norwegian Offshore Directorate has granted OMV (Norge) AS a drilling permit for two wildcat wells, 6606/4-1 S and 6606/4-1 A, in production license PL 1194. These wells will target the Hoffmann prospect, located approximately 15 kilometers from the Haydn-Monn discovery, which was Norway’s largest hydrocarbon find in 2024, with estimated recoverable volumes between 30 and 140 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe) .
Drilling operations are scheduled to commence this month using the Deepsea Bollsta, a sixth-generation semi-submersible rig managed by Odfjell Drilling and owned by Northern Ocean. The rig is designed for harsh environments and can accommodate up to 140 personnel .
OMV holds a 40% operating interest in PL 1194, with partners Inpex Idemitsu Norge and Vår Energi each holding 30% stakes. The Haydn-Monn discovery is situated about 65 kilometers from existing infrastructure, including the Polarled pipeline and the Equinor-operated Aasta Hansteen field. OMV is considering a subsea tieback to Aasta Hansteen, which could facilitate a faster and more cost-effective development with a reduced carbon footprint .
The outcome of the upcoming drilling at the Hoffmann prospect will be crucial in determining the potential for expanding OMV’s gas portfolio in the region.
