Havtil begins 2026 with a sharpened focus on safety, the working environment, emergency preparedness and security. Geopolitical turmoil, pressure on expertise and rapid progress in technology are placing new demands on the authority. At the same time, Havtil will seek to streamline, digitalise, and promote the green transition. The objective is to ensure robust solutions and high quality in the follow-up of the ocean industry – from the petroleum sector to offshore renewable energy.

Roles and responsibilities
The Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority’s areas of responsibility include the working environment, safety and emergency preparedness in the petroleum industry, offshore renewable energy production, CO2 transport and storage, and seabed minerals, as well as security in the petroleum activities.

Three main objectives for the year

In 2026, Havtil shall, in line with applicable regulations for its individual areas of responsibility, contribute to achieving three main objectives:

  • reduce the risk of major accidents in the petroleum industry
  • ensure that the companies undertake systematic proactive work on health, the working environment, safety and promote sound working conditions
  • ensure that the companies implement the necessary security measures to help prevent adverse incidents and maintain preparedness adapted to the prevailing risk picture.

Key challenges ahead

  • Improved safety- and security-oriented preparedness due to the geopolitical situation: Havtil will monitor the threat situation closely and ensure good coordination with other authorities.
  • Pressure on capacity and expertise in the industry: cost-cutting and high activity can weaken maintenance and staffing, which Havtil must monitor.

  • Technological progress and digitalisation, including the use of AI: new solutions must be implemented safely, within a framework that prevents adverse consequences.

World-leading HSE

Havtil’s priorities and activities towards achieving its objectives shall support the sector targets and goals of the Ministry as set out in Prop. 1 S (2025-2026), with a clear ambition for activities on the Norwegian Continental Shelf to be world-leading in HSE.

The letter of allocation is available in Norwegian only.