Woodside Energy, in partnership with Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), has commenced its drilling campaign at the Trion Field, marking a major milestone in the development of one of Mexico’s most significant offshore energy projects.
Located in the ultra-deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the start of drilling signifies a key step toward full field development following the project’s final investment decision (FID) in 2023.
Woodside Acting CEO Liz Westcott said: “The start of the drilling program represents a milestone for the Trion Project and for Mexico’s deepwater oil and gas sector.
“It underscores the strength of our collaboration with PEMEX and our shared commitment to delivering this world-class project safely and efficiently.
“Trion is more than a significant resource – it is an opportunity to enhance Mexico’s energy security, build local capability and generate enduring economic value for the country.”
The Trion development involves the execution of 24 subsea wells connected to a floating production unit (FPU) named Tláloc, designed with a nameplate capacity of around 100,000 barrels per day.
Complementing this is a network of subsea infrastructure and export systems aimed at ensuring safe and reliable operations.
Produced oil from Trion will be stored and offloaded through the Chalchi floating storage and offloading facility (FSO), which has a capacity of 950,000 barrels.
The drilling operations will be carried out by Deepwater Thalassa, a vessel owned by Transocean, supported by supply and logistics services operating from ports in the state of Tamaulipas.
The rig arrived in Mexican waters on 5 March 2026, strengthening local and regional supply chains in the process.
Since the FID, Woodside and its partners have advanced engineering, procurement, and operational planning activities in line with the approved schedule.
The project remains on track to achieve first oil in 2028, aligning with Mexico’s long-term energy objectives and offshore development strategy.
Woodside Vice President Trion Stephane Drouaud said: “The progress we are seeing at Trion reflects the dedication and expertise of our project team and partners who have worked tirelessly to advance this development.
“From engineering and planning through to drilling execution, the team is safely and systematically moving the project forward.”
Beyond technical progress, Trion is set to play a vital role in Mexico’s economic landscape.
The project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, as well as create new opportunities for local suppliers and service providers.
Over its lifetime, Trion is projected to deliver more than US$10 billion in taxes and royalties to Mexico, underscoring its broader national value.
Woodside holds a 60 per cent participating interest in the Trion Project and serves as operator, while PEMEX retains a 40 per cent stake.
Together, the partners are positioning Trion as a benchmark for safe, efficient, and collaborative deepwater development in the Gulf of Mexico.
