It is urgent for Norway to look for more oil and gas
Norway and Europe are now in the most serious security policy situation since World War II. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and hybrid wars against other European countries show that the Putin regime does not score any means to achieve its goals.
One of Putin's most important tools in the conflict with the West is energy. Specifically gas. Over time, Europe has become increasingly dependent on Russian gas to warm up our homes. Not only does the Putin regime provide tremendous power over Europe, it also provides massive revenue to carry on the war machinery against Ukraine.
Following the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Europe has worked against energy independence from Russia. Here Norway plays a crucial role. Germany replaces Russian gas with Norwegian gas, and it is now we who warm up home on the continent.
For many years to come, Norway will be by far Europe's largest and most important energy partner. Supplying our allies with gas and ensuring Europe's energy independence is crucial to our own freedom and security.
As early as 2030, Norwegian production is to fall dramatically if we are not looking for new gas. Several European countries are discussed whether the plans for energy independence from Russia should be scrapped due to power deficit. Then we have to take responsibility where we have the opportunity – and ensure high production for a long time to come.
Unfortunately, since 2021, SV has been pushing the Støre government to block opening and exploration in new areas. The SV has in reality dictated the government's oil and gas policy, and has stopped the 26th license round. Every time the SV has negotiated a budget with the government, the petroleum industry and the supplier industry along the coast have had to breathe. This despite the fact that the majority in the Storting supports the search for new oil and gas.
With the Center Party out of government, the Right now sees an opportunity to take responsibility in troubled times for Norway and Europe. Therefore, we propose to announce a new round of exploration in new areas as soon as possible. I hope the Center Party and the Progress Party take their share of the responsibility and vote for the proposal in the Storting. It can ensure a majority for more exploration.
We must act now whether Norway should continue to be a stable and democratic contributor to Europe's energy security and independence in the future. For the Right, it is not an alternative that Russia will again gain power over Europe's energy system. It shouldn't be for the Center Party either.
