Libya Announces Three New Oil & Gas Discoveries

Libya has announced three new oil and gas discoveries made with partners from Italy, Spain and Algeria, marking fresh progress in the country’s efforts to increase production after years of instability.

The National Oil Corporation (NOC) disclosed the discoveries, reporting successful exploration activities carried out with Eni, Repsol, and Sonatrach in both offshore and onshore areas.

The discoveries were made under Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements (EPSAs) signed in 2008, showing continued progress by the international companies as they meet their drilling commitments.

NOC and Italy’s Eni made the first discovery in offshore Block D, located about 95 kilometers west of Libya’s coast. The partners drilled the well to a depth of more than 10,000 feet, with initial tests showing strong gas flow rates that indicate the area’s production potential.

“The Metlawi reservoir produced 14 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d) through a 32/64-inch choke during the first test and 24 MMcf/d through a 62/64-inch choke in the second test,” the statement said.

“This well completes all nine contractual drilling commitments for offshore Contract Block D under the agreement signed in June 2008.”

The second discovery came from the Murzuq Basin through a partnership with Spain’s Repsol. The onshore well, located about 800 kilometers from Tripoli, is currently producing around 763 barrels of oil per day.

“This well is the fifth of Repsol’s eight contractual commitments under the Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement,” NOC said.

NOC and Algeria’s Sonatrach made the third discovery in the Ghadames Basin near the Wafa field, an area known for its oil and gas resources. The well is producing both natural gas and condensate, adding to the basin’s importance.

“The well is producing 13 million cubic feet of gas and 327 barrels of condensate per day from the Awynat Wanin and Awyn Kaza formations. It is the sixth of eight wells planned under Sonatrach’s drilling programme,” NOC said.

Libya, which holds Africa’s largest proven oil reserves, continues to rebuild its oil sector after years of conflict and production disruptions. The country is working to increase output and revive exploration through partnerships with international energy companies.

source:eastleighvoice.co.ke