In an exciting development for the energy sector, Azule Energy, a collaborative effort between industry giants BP and Eni, has officially spudded the first well in Angola’s groundbreaking non-associated offshore gas venture. This significant milestone marks the beginning of the drilling activities for the New Gas Consortium (NGC) project, a strategic initiative set to enhance Angola’s position in the global energy market.
Utilizing the Valaris V-144 jack-up drilling rig, the QUI-Q-GP01 well’s inauguration is a landmark moment, emphasizing Angola’s potential to develop its offshore gas resources. Traditionally, the region has relied on gas extracted as a by-product of oil production, known as associated gas. However, the NGC’s forward-thinking approach aims to specifically target and develop non-associated gas from offshore fields, thereby bolstering the country’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capabilities.
“This achievement marks a major milestone in the development of NGC and reinforces our commitment to advancing Angola’s energy future,” said Azule Energy, echoing excitement over this innovative endeavor on social media. They further highlighted that the NGC drilling and completion campaign is poised to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable energy solutions, a critical factor in today’s energy landscape.
The project’s pathway began with a final investment decision (FID) in July 2022, showcasing a robust plan for producing gas from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro shallow water fields. Key infrastructure includes two offshore platforms, an onshore gas processing plant, and a direct connection to the Angola LNG plant. With an impressive expected output of four billion cubic meters of gas annually, NGC aims to significantly contribute to the country’s energy production capacity.
First gas production is anticipated to commence in early 2026, with expectations to reach a peak production capacity of over 300 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd). The NGC is not only backed by Azule Energy but also includes partners like Chevron’s Cabinda Gulf Oil Company (CABGOC), Sonangol Pesquisa e Produção (Sonangol P&P), and TotalEnergies EP Angola Développement Gaz, all of whom are vital players in this exciting journey.
With this development, Angola is taking meaningful steps towards its energy independence and growth, ushering in a new era for the African nation. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, Angola’s proactive approach to harnessing its gas resources demonstrates its readiness to take on new opportunities and challenges.
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