ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (BG) – Ivory Coast has achieved a significant milestone in its oil and gas sector with the launch of Phase 2 of the Baleine field, boosting production to 60,000 barrels of oil per day, Eni, a global energy major, announced.
Described by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) as the largest discovery in Ivory Coast and Africa’s first net-zero upstream project for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, the project comes just two years after the Final Investment Decision (FID) and one and a half years after Phase 1 began operations.
This achievement positions Ivory Coast as a key player in West Africa’s energy sector, according to a statement by the AEC on Monday.
“The AEC is committed to supporting Ivory Coast’s initiatives to reduce energy poverty, promote local content, and foster economic development,” NJ Ayuk, the AEC’s executive chairman, said.
Scaling up production and economic growth
With the start of Phase 2, production from the Baleine field is expected to reach 60,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) and 70 million cubic feet of associated gas.
According to the AEC, the deployment of the Petrojarl Kong FPSO and the Yamoussoukro FSO will ensure efficient energy exports to international markets while supporting domestic energy supplies.
The ambitious Phase 3 of the Baleine project is already under study and is expected to increase production to approximately 150,000 bpd and 200 million cubic feet of associated gas.
The expansion will further cement Côte d’Ivoire’s position as a regional energy hub.
Cementing regional leadership
The West African country has emerged as a leader in West Africa’s oil and gas sector, underpinned by progressive policies, a robust regulatory framework and favorable fiscal terms.
Beyond the Baleine project, Eni’s recent discovery of the Calao field in Block CI-205, estimated to hold 1.5 billion barrels of oil, signals continued growth.
The Calao field is expected to stream by 2026, generating significant revenues and creating 8,000 jobs.
“Ivory Coast’s strong policies have laid the foundation for oil companies to drive large-scale projects, with the Baleine field serving as a prime example of what is possible when innovation meets efficient governance,” said Ayuk.
Prospects
With its vast hydrocarbon reserves and strategic partnerships, Ivory Coast is setting an example for sustainable and innovative energy development in Africa.
The success of the Baleine field and the upcoming Calao project underscore the country’s commitment to energy security, economic growth, and regional leadership in the oil and gas industry.
This milestone is a critical step forward for the country as it transforms into a hub for energy production and exploration in West Africa.
“The country is not just a key player in West Africa’s energy sector; it is a model for what the future of African oil and gas development should look like,” Ayuk added.
