Italy’s Eni has reported two new offshore gas discoveries in Libya, with combined volumes estimated at more than 1 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), according to a statement released by the company on Monday.
The discoveries were made during an exploration campaign initiated in recent months in the Mediterranean Sea.
Eni said the gas was found within the Metlaoui formation, a reservoir known for its hydrocarbon potential in the region.
Results from well tests confirmed the presence of gas and indicated that the reservoirs are capable of sustained production.
While the company did not provide a timeline for when production would begin, it noted that the location of the discoveries offers operational advantages due to their closeness to existing infrastructure.
NOC provides output projections
On its part, Libya’s state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC) also confirmed the discoveries and outlined expected production levels. In its statement, the corporation said the new fields are projected to produce about 130 million cubic feet of gas per day.
Officials at the NOC said the additional output would contribute to meeting domestic energy needs and maintaining export flows. The corporation added that gas from the discoveries will be supplied to the Libyan domestic market, with part of the production exported to Italy.
Libya continues to depend on its gas sector for both local consumption and exports, particularly to European markets through existing pipelines.
Wells positioned near existing facilities
The discoveries were made through two wells, Bahr Essalam South 2 and Bahr Essalam South 3. The wells are located approximately 85 kilometres offshore and about 16 kilometres south of the Bahr Essalam field.
The Bahr Essalam field is the largest offshore gas-producing field in Libya and has been operational since 2005. Eni stated that the proximity of the new wells to this field allows for connection to existing offshore facilities.
This connection is expected to support the processing and transportation of gas from the new wells using infrastructure already in place, which may help streamline development activities.
Eni has operated in Libya since 1959 and remains one of the key international companies in the country’s oil and gas sector.
The development comes as Libya continues efforts to sustain gas supply for domestic use while meeting export obligations.
Offshore exploration activities remain ongoing, with operators seeking to identify additional reserves within the country’s energy sector.
