Norwegian authorities fear steep crude decline

This is a direct quotation by Norwegian Oil Director Mr. Gunnar Berge from the Foreword to Facts – The Norwegian Petroleum Sector – 2007 (220-page PDF) published by the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy on Friday, April w0:

Forecasts show that gas production is rising while oil production is declining. The number of exploration wells increased significantly in 2006 compared with the previous year, but only six new discoveries were made. These were made in four wellbores. This is figures for reflection [stet]. If we are to achieve the development that we want, with only a slow and gradual decline, serious efforts must be made in several areas.
(page 8)

What is the Norwegian Oil Director actually predicting here?

He is establishing “a slow and gradual decline” as a best case scenario for Norway, concluding that “serious efforts must be made in several areas” to achieve it. The alternative scenario? Steep decline.

Energy Bulletin