Norway-based NorSea Group is to invest NOK60 million (US$7.2 million) at Hammerfest Harbour to build a new roll-on/roll-off facility at its Polarbase supply base.
The announcement follows Statoil's plans for the Johan Castberg project in the Barents Sea, with more investments expected to develop a competitive supplier cluster at Hammerfest.
"The development phase means many years of project activities," NorSea Group CEO John Stangeland said. "Operation of another field in the Barents Sea gives NorSea Group and the supplier industry in general the possibility for long-term investments, both in competence development and recruitment.
"We anticipate that we will make further investment in infrastructure to meet these needs."
Polarbase Managing Director Ketil Holmgren said new Ro-Ro facilities at the quay would allow for even more efficient loading and unloading work.
"This confirms our own experience when Eni Norway chose Polarbase as its supply base site for Goliat. Start-up will give vital stability for us, our employees and our partners," said Mr Holmgren.