Statoil will not renew one of the rig contracts for the Troll field.
According to reports, the Norwegian operator had previously said it would have four rigs operating in the field as long as it was economically profitable.
However, with backing from the authorities, it has said it will not renew the contract for the Stena Don once it has completed its current work.
The move has been agreed by the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate and the company.
Statoil said the decision was made as the firm has achieved “significant improvement” in drilling efficiency.
There are three rigs currently under long-term contract – the Songa Endurance, the Songa Equinox and the COSL Promoter.