[en] Contingent claims analysis provides a useful tool for analysing the value of tax claims, and of companies' after-tax values, under uncertainty. The method is presented and applied to the analysis of how Norwegian petroleum taxes affect company behaviour. Few results can be derived analytically. A numerical approach is suggested, with a stylized description of production possibilities. The Norwegian taxes are found to have strong distortionary effects. The relation to other methods and problems connected with the application are discussed. (Author)

[en] The conference paper deals with new types of offshore platform concepts developed in Norway. The concepts include unmanned wellhead platforms and semi-submerged production platforms for deep water areas. As a consequence of the low level oil prices, the concepts discussed in this paper are based on cost-effective development solutions and project models. These solutions cover the cold forming of pipes, and the design of wellhead platforms and semi-submerged production platforms. 10 figs

[en] Abstract only

[en] This report discusses methods of calculating loss costs in transmission grid systems and distribution networks in Norway and updates previous specific loss costs. For this updating, the stylized network on which the specific loss costs are calculated have been modified. The number of radial levels have been reduced by combining the 132 kV and the 66 (47) kV networks. In addition to reducing the number of main levels, it was decided to introduce a stronger differentiation at the distribution level. The principle of alternative loss costs at distribution level has been extended by introduction of a third alternative for distribution networks which concerns cable grids in regions of intermediate area load, in addition to cable grids with high area load and overhead cables. It is found that the loss costs have not changed much for the highest levels since 1992. For the distribution network, however, there is a considerable increase in loss costs. Networks containing energy-intensive industries are not considered. 14 refs., 19 figs., 41 tabs

[en] A short description is given of activities related to the use of natural gas in Norway. During 1992 four main research projects were initiated concerning methane reaction modes, synthetic gas derived from methane, thermal power production systems and gas operation of diesel locomotives in the north. Short descriptions are given of projects that were concluded during 1992. Information is also given on a demonstration project with regard to gas-driven busses in two Norwegian towns and on SPUNG = ''Statlig FoU Program for Utnyttelse av Naturgass'' (State research and development programme for the use of natural gas). (AB)

[en] The conference paper deals with the Norwegian Government policy on the challenge for the oil industry. Three main topics are addressed. First, the author gives a short outline of the main characteristics of the present situation and derives the most important challenges in coming years. Secondly, there are given some thoughts to how the industry may cope with this situation. Finally, the paper discusses the role of the authorities and how to stimulate continued exploration and development of fields on the Norwegian continental shelf

[en] Oil company executives are satisfied with the regulatory reform proposed by the Ministry of Industry and Energy (MIE), particularly the new terms for the Barents Sea. They do not, however, expect the changes to have any influence on exploration and development. A majority says that the tax hike of 1992 and the work currently in progress in the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to abolish or curb interest tax deductability already have done far more harm than the improvements offered by MIE. Today, the executives rank Norway as less attractive than 65% of all host countries in the world, while only 33% were considered more attractive ten years ago. 1 fig

[en] Techniques for reducing adverse effects of river and lake regulation are being developed and tested within the framework of the Norwegian Biotope Adjustment Programme. The programme is illustrated by studies of a river flowing through the wetland area, Lesjaleirene, which has been drained and channelized to provide additional agricultural land. The channelized river has a homogeneous sand substrate. Experimental placement of rocks and stones increased brown trout densities, especially in areas in contact with the river banks. The new areas of rocks and stones provide cover for fish as well as a greater variation in depth and flow conditions. (Author)

[en] The petroleum industry investment in Norway will be NOK 42.7 billion in 1995, which is expected to be a temporary bottom level on this side of the year 2000. The article discusses briefly the future investment rate on the continental shelf by referring to the 1997 national budget. According to this budget, the annual investment in the period from 1997 to 1999 will increase to NOK 50 billion and then fall to the 1995 level. The Royal Ministry of Industry and Energy is expecting a drastic fall in the annual investment to NOK 20 billion from the year 2000. 2 figs

[en] Representatives from ten Norwegian companies in the offshore supplies industry were interviewed to explore the opportunities and barriers they had experienced in their effort to enter the British offshore sector. The interviews revealed that there are mainly four reasons why British sector is regarded as a favorable market: British sector is a natural homemarket, buyers operate both on the British and the Norwegian sector, the British sector can be a ''door-opener'' to the rest of the English speaking world, and finally the British sector is a market of considerable size. The companies had mainly encountered three types of barriers: British culture/communication problems, heavy competition from British suppliers, and protectionism. The report is concluded by summarizing what we believe are the critical success factors for entering the British sector. Directions for further research are also given