The new accommodation and field centre platform on the Ekofisk Complex was officially opened on Tuesday, 1 April. Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Robert Eriksson (pictured) and Europe President Steinar Våge had travelled out to Ekofisk for the occasion. Accompanying them were representatives from the Ekofisk licensees, dignitaries from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, as well as representatives from the two largest contractor companies. 

In his opening speech, the Minister placed emphasis on the significant contributions from the people in the Greater Ekofisk Area to the Norwegian society over the past 40 years. He expressed great joy and pride in being given the honour to officially open the platform. He also stressed the major and important contributions from Norwegian industries to the project.

 
The new platform now entering use, is the largest accommodation platform in the North Sea, with 552 individual cabins. It also comprises offices, hospital, recreational areas and a brand new telecommunications centre. Two helicopter hangars and a heli-deck with a capacity for 50 daily flights have also been constructed. Ekofisk 2/4 L replaces two older facilities from the 1970s.
Europe President Steinar Våge (pictured, left) used the opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to making the project such a success; the authorities, partners, suppliers, and not least, the employees.
‘We now have a modern and functional platform which will serve Ekofisk well for the coming 40 years, and beyond’, he said. 

Minister Eriksson thanked the Ekofisk employees for what they do for Norway, on behalf of the government.
‘We are proud of you and look forward to seeing this platform being a great place to be,’ the Minister said before unveiling a commemorative plaque.