- Equinor Mongstad was charged in May 2021 for violations of the Pollution Control Act.
- Økokrim fined Equinor NOK 220 million and issued a NOK 500 million confiscation claim.
- Equinor disputes the penalty, stating it self-reported and corrected the issues.
- The case will be clarified in court.
Background
In May 2021, Equinor Refining Norway AS, known as Equinor Mongstad, faced charges for violations of the Pollution Control Act. These charges relate to historical emissions and discharges that the company itself identified, investigated, and addressed.
Penalty Details
Following the investigation, Økokrim imposed a fine of NOK 220 million on Equinor Mongstad, along with a confiscation claim amounting to NOK 500 million.
Equinor's Response
Equinor has expressed serious concern over the charges, emphasizing that it proactively uncovered and reported the emissions to authorities. The company conducted thorough investigations and implemented corrective measures. Equinor disputes the claim that it neglected proper maintenance over decades or saved costs through inadequate maintenance. Økokrim has not specified the nature of the alleged negligence.
Legal Proceedings
Equinor has decided not to accept the penalty notice and intends to resolve the matter in court. The law firm Hjort AS represents Equinor in this case.
