Bahr Essalam Phase 2 project offshore Libya oil is reported to have commenced production just three years after its FID was taken.
The field is operated by Mellitah Oil & Gas, a 50/50 JV company belonging to the two firms, Eni and Libya’s National Oil Company
According to the report, two additional wells are expected to start production within a week, with yet another seven which comes on-line, all things being equal, by October.
With this Phase 2 which also completes the development of the largest offshore producing gas field in Libya, the country would have seen a potential increase in production by 400 Mmcf/d. Phase 2 is expected to be fully completed before November 2018 to now bring about total field production to 1,100 Mmcf/d.
Production from the Bahr Essalem is delivered through the Sabratha platform to the Mellitah onshore treatment plant before principally being used to supply the national network, online news agency says.
Mustafa Sanalla, head of NOC was quoted to have said that his company was “committed to guaranteeing and increasing gas production in order to supply Libyan power plants.” Adding that this will equally support the development of the domestic market and reduce costly liquid fuel imports and free up significant financial resources, given the enormity of challenges across the country.
He added: “ENI have demonstrated the confidence that international oil companies have in NOC, and the success that legitimate partnerships can deliver for all Libyans.”
Claudio Descalzi, ENI CEO was also quoted to have commented: “Bahr Essalam is the product of a longstanding relationship between NOC and ENI, and represents an important milestone to ensure greater energy supply security for Libya. The project further demonstrates the trust and recognition Eni has in NOC as Libya’s sole legitimate oil corporation; one with whom we will continue to work exclusively in-country.
“The start of production – delivered in an impressive time-to-market, and in a challenging environment – is a significant achievement for Mellitah Oil & Gas. We are proud that Phase 2 will play an important role in supplying Libya with the necessary gas to fuel the country’s recovery over the next 15 years.”
