Eni Starts Hydrocarbon Production at the Largest Field in the Ivory Coast
The Italian Eni, together with the Ivorian Petroci Holding, has begun hydrocarbon production at the Balein field on the shelf of Côte d’Ivoire.
“This milestone has been passed less than two years after the discovery made in September 2021 and less than a year and a half after the final investment decision. This is Africa’s first emissions-free production project – Scope 1 and 2,” Eni said in a statement.
Currently, production is carried out through the repaired and modernized Baleine FPSO floating unit, capable of processing up to 15 thousand barrels of oil and about 25 million cubic meters. feet of associated gas per day. The start of the second phase is expected by the end of 2024, which will increase daily production to 50 thousand barrels. and 70 million cubic meters. ft. At the third stage, production will increase to 150,000 barrels per day and 200 million cubic meters. ft/s
All produced gas will be brought ashore via a new pipeline to meet the needs of the electricity market in Côte d’Ivoire.
Balein is the largest hydrocarbon oil and gas field in the Ivorian sedimentary basin. Resources here are estimated at 2.5 billion barrels. oil and 3.3 trillion cubic meters. feet of associated gas.
In Côte d’Ivoire, Eni began operating in the 1960s, returned to the country in 2015, and has interests in six deepwater blocks.
