Eni Launches Baleine Phase 2 – a Game-Changer for Ivory Coast’s Oil & Gas (O&G) Sector
Energy giant Eni has announced that it has successfully launched the second phase of its flagship Bahrain oil field offshore Côte d’Ivoire. Said to be the country’s largest discovery and the continent’s first Scope 1 and 2 net-zero emissions upstream project, the landmark milestone was achieved just two and a year and a half after FID. A few years after the launch of the first phase.
As the voice of Africa’s energy industry, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends Eni and its partners – especially national oil company Petroci – for this incredible achievement. This project is a true testament to the efficiency and commitment of the company and all participants, laying the foundation for Côte d’Ivoire to become a powerhouse in the oil and gas industry in West Africa.
With the start of the second phase of the project, the output of the Baleine oil field is expected to reach 60,000 barrels of oil and 70 million cubic feet of associated gas per day, marking a key step in the development of the country’s offshore resources. As part of the second phase, FPSO Petrojarl Kong has been deployed together with FSO Yamoussoukro and both are now operational. The vessels will play a key role in exporting energy to international markets, while making a significant contribution to Côte d’Ivoire’s own energy supply and supporting the country’s local energy needs.
Meanwhile, Eni is currently developing plans to expand and consolidate Côte d’Ivoire’s position as a regional energy hub by launching the third phase of the Balaine project. Currently under study, a third phase is planned to increase the field’s output to about 150,000 barrels per day and associated gas production to 200 million cubic feet, cementing the country’s position as a major energy player in the region.
Côte d’Ivoire is becoming a powerhouse in West Africa’s oil and gas industry, driven by a solid regulatory framework, attractive fiscal conditions and innovative partnerships. The country’s vast hydrocarbon reserves and progressive policies have attracted investment from leading energy companies, cementing its position as a regional center for energy production and exploration. In addition to the Baleine oil field, Eni also made a major discovery in the CI-205 block (Calao oil field) in March 2024, which is estimated to contain 1.5 billion barrels of oil. The discovery is expected to generate significant revenue and create 8,000 jobs. Côte d’Ivoire plans to start developing the Kalaw oil field by 2026 to strengthen the country’s energy security and economic growth.
“African Economic Community is committed to supporting Côte d’Ivoire’s initiatives to reduce energy poverty, promote local content and boost economic development. Côte d’Ivoire’s strong policies lay the foundation for oil companies to pursue large-scale projects, and the Baleine field is an example of innovation combined with efficient governance. The The country is not only an important player in West Africa’s energy sector, it is a model for the future of oil and gas development in Africa,” said AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the African Energy Chamber.
