Eni continues the Baleine project in Ivory Coast, continuing the development of what is defined as the “largest hydrocarbon field ever discovered in the country”. The announcement of the approval of phase 3 came today, Monday 25 May, during a ceremony attended by the Minister of Mineral Resources of the Ivory Coast, Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly. Eni and partners Petroci and Vitol have approved the final investment decision for phase 3 of the project.
What is Eni’s Baleine project in Ivory Coast
Phase 3 full field development will bring oil production from 60,000 to 150,000 barrels per day and gas production from 80 to 200 million cubic feet per day (2.3 to 5.66 million cubic meters per day). “Baleine represents the full expression of Eni’s exploration and production model, founded on excellence in exploration activities, on the ability to develop projects quickly and phased, and on a solid commitment to sustainability, in constant dialogue with the country that hosts us. This project demonstrates our commitment to contributing to the strengthening of energy security, the development of local economies and a less carbon-intensive energy future” commented Eni’s CEO, Claudio Descalzi.
The project involves the construction of a new floating production, storage and offloading unit (FPSO), designed to guarantee high standards of operational efficiency and safety and a lower environmental impact. It is based on the phased and fast track development model already adopted in the first two phases, which allows production to be brought forward, optimizing costs and enhancing existing infrastructure. All the gas produced – Eni informs in a note – will be destined for the domestic market, contributing to the energy needs of the Ivory Coast, the expansion of electricity generation and the strengthening of the country’s industrial development.
What Eni does in Ivory Coast
Eni has been present in Ivory Coast since 2015, where it made the Baleine and Calao discoveries. These have contributed to strengthening interest in the Ivorian offshore, confirming the country’s potential as one of the most promising energy areas in West Africa.
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The company also declares itself committed “to promoting sustainable development from a social and economic perspective through initiatives in the sectors of education, training, healthcare, economic diversification and the development of local entrepreneurial content”.