ExxonMobil has been an active player on the Norwegian exploration scene since 1965, when Esso Norge AS was awarded the first three exploration licenses on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS).

ExxonMobil has over the last 10 years in particular actively explored the deepwater blocks of the Norwegian Sea and areas around existing infrastructure in the North Sea and Haltenbanken. The company has both as an operator and a partner in OBO (Operated By Others) projects made many oil and gas discoveries during these years. The success is due to the application of state-of-the-art exploration technologies, a highly qualified and trained local staff, and access to ExxonMobil’s technical expertise on a global scale.

ExxonMobil participated in 6 of the total 12 discoveries made on the Norwegian shelf in 2007.  The two most important discoveries were Fram North (also named H North) and the Njord Northwest Flank. Common for all the new discoveries is their location near existing infrastructure. Early 2008, the company was awarded interest in three new licences in the 2007 APA Licensing Round. In January 2008, ExxonMobil nominated blocks for the 20th Licensing Round.

ExxonMobil will continue its mapping of available areas in the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea and Barents Sea. We will continue the emphasis on co-existence with all industries through flawless implementation of our exploration programs, with zero harmful impact on the environment. The company's  performance on the Norwegian Continental Shelf to date, coupled with its worldwide experience with environmentally sensitive areas, operating procedures and advanced technology, ensures that co-existence will continue into the future.