Gas flow and pressure build up measurements from test work at the Grolloo field have now been analysed. Northern can confirm an increased projected rate of production at 7.5 MMSCFD. Grolloo’s first production is scheduled in the fourth quarter of this year.

The Grolloo field in the Drenthe IV licence is one of the smaller of six Netherlands oil and gas fields being developed by the Company and is the fourth of five wells being hydraulically fractured in what has proven to be a highly successful and rewarding production enhancement programme.

“Overall the hydraulic fracturing programme has exceeded even our upside expectations. Now we look forward to bringing the Grolloo gas field onstream at greater levels of production and profit.” stated Derek Musgrove, Managing Director of Northern. “We have other ongoing operations in the Netherlands. The Tiendeveen-1 exploration well spudded on the 12th August is scheduled for completion in October. The hydraulic reservoir fracturing programme at Geesbrug is underway and the results of subsequent flow testing are expected and are eagerly awaited.” added Musgrove.

NPN maintains a 45% licence and working interest with EBN and Dyas having respectively 40% and 15%.

In accordance with the AIM Rules – Guidance for Mining and Oil & Gas Companies, the information contained in this announcement has been reviewed and signed off by the Exploration and Technical Director of Northern Petroleum Plc, Mr Graham Heard CGeol FGS, who has over 35 years experience as a petroleum geologist.

For further information please contact:

Northern Petroleum Plc
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7469 2900/61
Derek Musgrove, Managing Director
Graham Heard, Exploration & Technical Director
Sophie Hull, Head of Corporate Communications

Jefferies International
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7029 8000
Chris Snoxall / Schuyler Evans

Astaire Securities
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7448 4400
Jerry Keen / Toby Gibbs

Bishopsgate Communications (Press)
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7562 3350
Nick Rome / Michael Kinirons

Buchanan Communications (Analysts)
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7466 5000
Tim Thompson / Ben Romney