By John Lee.
Iraq's Oil Ministry reported steady progress on the gas investment project led by French company TotalEnergies in Basra, confirming it aligns with the government's strategic timelines.
Deputy Oil Minister for Extraction, Mr. Basem Mohammed Khudair, chaired the seventh Joint Management Committee meeting, attended by officials including Deputy Minister for Gas Mr. Ezzat Saber, Basra Oil Company (BOC) Director Mr. Basem Abdulkarim, and South Gas Company (SGC) Director Mr. Hamza Abdulbaqi. The project, a major strategic initiative, includes multiple components such as the development of the Artawi Field and gas recovery operations across five oil fields in two stages, each stage processing 300 million standard cubic feet (mmscf) daily for a total of 600 mmscf.
The project also encompasses a seawater injection system to maintain reservoir pressure, as well as a solar power plant with a 1,000 MW capacity to be developed in four phases, each producing 250 MW.
Mr. Khudair highlighted a recent addition, the "Accelerated Gas Recovery" component, aimed at further reducing gas flaring. This new element will process 50 mmscf of gas not initially planned, in response to directives for efficient gas utilization. Contracts for drilling activities have been tendered, with operations expected to commence by December.
Additionally, seismic surveys are underway, awarded to a Chinese firm in partnership with Iraq's Oil Exploration Company. Progress has also been made on securing a seawater supply, with ongoing negotiations involving Total and another firm.
An essential aspect discussed was engaging Iraqi graduates and skilled workers, whom Total is expected to employ directly, ensuring job creation without third-party contractors.
(Source: Ministry of Oil)
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