Ekofisk complex (IMAGE) Norwegian University of Science and Technology Caption The Ekofisk complex in the North Sea, about 320 km southwest of Stavanger. Ekofisk was discovered by the Phillips Petroleum Company in 1969, and marked Norway's debut as an oil nation. The field began producing in 1971 and continues to operate today. But when it is eventually shut down, its wells will have to be plugged. Credit Photo: ConocoPhillips Usage Restrictions Use only in association with articles about this research and with proper credit. License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.