Some Norwegian politicians have even proposed halting electricity exports until the risk of an energy crisis is gone.
Oslo’s move raises fears of a difficult winter for Europe, particularly Britain, Germany and the Netherlands, three countries heavily dependent on cheap Norwegian energy.
Norway’s oil ministry will not force energy companies to sell gas to Europe at discounted prices, as this is against market rules.
“I am not pursuing a policy of requiring Norwegian energy companies to sign contracts to sell gas to Europe at a fixed price,” Norwegian Oil Minister Terje Asland wrote in a letter to parliament on Aug. 25.
The statement came after an MP suggested Norway should show solidarity and share difficulties with the European Union by requiring Turkish companies to sell gas at a fixed price lower than the current market price.
