BP expands offshore gas production with Raven field phase two in Egypt

BP has successfully commenced production from the second phase of its Raven field development, a critical component of the West Nile Delta (WND) project offshore Egypt. The expansion involves a subsea tieback of additional Raven infill wells to the existing onshore infrastructure, a move that strengthens BP’s position in Egypt’s offshore gas sector. With BP as the project operator holding an 82.75% stake, and Harbour Energy owning the remaining 17.25%, this development marks another milestone in BP’s long-term commitment to Egypt’s energy security.

The new Raven wells are expected to produce 220 billion cubic feet of gas and 7 million barrels of condensate, significantly boosting Egypt’s natural gas reserves. The project was completed ahead of schedule, allowing BP to accelerate production and optimise offshore operations.

How Is BP Managing Natural Decline and Enhancing Production Efficiency?

One of the key drivers behind the Raven Infills project is natural decline management, ensuring that existing reserves remain productive while increasing overall output. Nader Zaki, BP’s Regional President for the Middle East and North Africa, stated that since January 2024, BP has maintained continuous drilling operations without any interruptions. He highlighted the company’s focus on production efficiency and maximising existing infrastructure to meet Egypt’s rising energy demand.

Zaki credited the strong collaboration between BP and Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum, the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC), and the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) for the project’s success. He emphasised that BP’s commitment to the country remains firm, with ongoing investments aimed at sustaining and expanding gas output.

Adding to this perspective, Wail Shaheen, BP Egypt’s Vice President, underscored the safe and efficient execution of the Raven Infills project. He linked the achievement to BP’s recent success with the El King exploration well, which further demonstrates the company’s ability to optimise production capacity while identifying new energy sources.

What Role Does the Raven Field Play in BP’s West Nile Delta Strategy?

The Raven field, located in Egypt’s North Alexandria and West Mediterranean Deepwater concessions, is part of the $9 billion WND project, which comprises five offshore gas fields: Taurus, Libra, Giza, Fayoum, and Raven. Since its initial production in early 2021, the Raven field has been a key supplier of gas to Egypt’s national grid.

The first phase of Raven development included eight subsea wells, situated 65 km offshore in water depths ranging from 550 to 700 meters. The latest phase strengthens BP’s position as a leading gas producer in the region, increasing daily production capacity to 600 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d), with peak potential reaching 900 mmscf/d and 30,000 barrels per day of condensate.

BP’s investment in offshore production efficiency aligns with its broader strategy of resource optimisation and maximising infrastructure potential. The company aims to leverage the West Nile Delta’s onshore processing facility for future infill drilling and exploration opportunities, reinforcing Egypt’s energy independence.

How Does BP’s Offshore Expansion Fit Into Its Global Energy Strategy?

BP’s continuous expansion in Egypt reflects a broader strategic vision to enhance offshore gas production while ensuring cost-competitive and resilient energy supplies. The company’s success in multi-stage offshore developments—starting with Taurus/Libra in 2017, followed by Giza/Fayoum in 2019, and now Raven—demonstrates its commitment to Egypt’s energy security and long-term resource sustainability.

Beyond Egypt, BP has also been expanding its offshore capabilities globally. Earlier this month, BP signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Seatrium for the potential development of the Tiber Floating Production Unit (FPU) in the Gulf of America. The agreement, contingent upon BP’s final investment decision later this year, designates Seatrium as the engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) contractor. The Tiber FPU project is expected to enhance BP’s deepwater production capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to energy security and resource optimisation in the region.

What Is the Long-Term Impact of BP’s Investments in Egypt?

As one of the largest investors in Egypt’s energy sector, BP continues to play a crucial role in developing local energy infrastructure and workforce capabilities. The company has prioritised sustainability initiatives, ensuring that projects like the West Nile Delta development generate local employment opportunities while fostering economic growth.

Throughout the different phases of the project, BP has invested in sustainable local community development, maximising local content, and creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs for Egyptian nationals. By expanding the Raven Infills project, BP is not only reinforcing its position in the offshore gas market but also strengthening Egypt’s domestic energy supply, helping to meet rising demand with cost-efficient and resilient production solutions.

With the Raven project now in its second phase, BP is well-positioned to continue driving energy security and offshore production efficiency in Egypt. By leveraging its advanced offshore infrastructure, BP remains focused on optimising output from existing fields, while exploring new opportunities for growth and resource expansion.