Norway faces diesel shortage risk with only 20 days of reserves
Norway’s fuel reserves cover just 20 days of diesel consumption, prompting calls to expand storage amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
Norway currently holds enough diesel for only 20 days of use, a level deemed risky given the ongoing conflict in the Hormuz Strait. All diesel and aviation fuel are imported, as the sole Mongstad refinery, owned by Equinor, lacks sufficient capacity to cover national needs. An August report advised the government to increase emergency fuel stocks to 61 days, and the industry body Oslo Economics suggests a feasible rise to 45 days with existing infrastructure, albeit with a multi-year timeline.
The government plans to present measures in the 2027 state budget. European neighbours are also reviewing their emergency fuel reserves, highlighting the broader regional concern.
Why it matters
Limited diesel reserves could disrupt Norway’s transport, industry and emergency services if imports are halted.
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