Eni, in partnership with Petroci, has announced a significant increase in gas production from the Baleine upstream project, bolstering Côte d’Ivoire’s energy sector and improving energy access.

The launch of phase two in December 2024 has already led to increased industrial growth and a more secure energy supply for the nation.

The Baleine project is now producing up to 70 million cubic feet per day (mcf/d) of gas, which will be used to meet local demand and support the country’s power generation needs.

In addition to the gas supply increase, Eni has reached a milestone in oil production, achieving a plateau of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd).

This represents a threefold increase compared to the 20,000 bpd produced during phase one.

Baleine stands out as Africa’s first net-zero upstream project for scope 1 and 2 emissions, thanks to the use of advanced technologies and collaboration with the Ivorian government.

Phase one of the project was completed in August 2023, and phase three is currently under consideration.

Once fully operational, total production is projected to reach 150,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) and 200 mcf of associated gas.

Eni has been active in Côte d’Ivoire since 2015, contributing to energy production and supporting national development efforts in education, training, healthcare, and economic diversification.

In a related development, Eni has agreed to sell interests in certain assets in Côte d’Ivoire and the Republic of Congo to Vitol.

The transaction, which includes standard cash adjustments at closing, covers both oil and gas assets. As part of the deal, Eni will transfer a 30 per cent participating interest in the Baleine project in Côte d’Ivoire, where it currently holds a 77.25 per cent stake.