REYKJAVIK, Iceland, December 18 /PRNewswire/ --

This morning, the Government of Iceland approved Minister of Industry Ossur Skarphedinsson's proposal to offer exclusive licenses for oil and gas exploration and production in the Dreki Area (the Atlantic, northeast of Iceland, on the Jan Mayen Ridge, between Iceland and the island of Jan Mayen.) The tentative release date is 15 January 2009. International companies have expressed interest in the area.

Seismic surveys and other geophysical measurements indicate that producible quantities of oil and gas could be found as they have been in adjacent and geologically similar areas. Recent strides in drilling and production technology along with other nations' experience with oil and gas production at great ocean depths and in northerly regions have made searching for these resources in the Dreki Area possible. Further research, including exploratory drilling, is necessary to verify whether oil and gas exist in the Dreki Area. The Government's approval is based on the findings of a detailed strategic environmental assessment report on the matter.

The Government aims at sensible utilization of oil resources found in the greatest possible harmony with the environment and society. "There is no assurance that producible quantities of oil and gas will be found in the Dreki Area, but it is clear that considerable oil and gas discoveries could have vigorous impact on Iceland's economy. The gross domestic product could increase considerably when construction and production are at their peak, and the State Treasury's revenues would similarly increase. This would therefore strengthen the nation's economic foundations; in addition, oil production would reinforce settlement in Northeast Iceland," said Minister Ossur Skarphedinsson.

There will be stringent requirements on security and work safety as well as on environmental protection. Use of the best available technology will be demanded to reduce the environmental impact and risk of accidents and mishaps.

Research on the marine biosphere, climate and sea conditions in the Dreki Area, are already in progress. This research is important in evaluating the later impact of oil exploration and will be completed before drilling begins.

If producible quantities of oil and gas are found in the Dreki Area, this will be a major addition to the hydro-power and geothermal energy already produced in Iceland.

Web site: http://eng.idnadarraduneyti.is/Publications/nr/2535

Kristinn Einarsson, Project Coordinator at Icelandic National Energy Authority, +354-863-9974, ke@os.is