Eni and its partners Petroci and Vitol have approved the final investment decision (FID) for the Baleine Phase 3 project in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, marking a milestone in the development of the largest hydrocarbon discovery ever made in the country.
The full-field Phase 3 development will increase oil
production from 60,000 to 150,000 barrels per day and gas output from 80 to 200
million cubic feet per day.
“Baleine is a testament to Eni’s exploration and production
model, built on excellence in exploration activities, the ability to develop
projects through a fast-track and phased approach, and a consistent commitment
to sustainability, in continuous dialogue with the host country. This project
reflects our commitment to strengthening energy security, supporting local
economic development and advancing a lower-carbon energy future,” said Claudio
Descalzi, Chief Executive Officer of Eni.
The project includes the development of a new floating
production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit, designed to ensure high
standards of operational efficiency and safety and lower environmental impact.
It builds on the phased and fast-track development model
already implemented in Baleine’s first two phases, enabling early production
while optimising costs and leveraging existing infrastructure.
Alll gas produced will be allocated to the domestic market,
contributing to Côte d’Ivoire’s energy needs, expanding electricity generation
and supporting the country’s industrial development.