Tengizchevroil launches Wellhead Pressure Management Project in Kazakhstan

Tengizchevroil (TCO), a major oil production joint venture, has officially commenced operations at its Wellhead Pressure Management Project (WPMP) located in the Tengiz oil field, Atyrau region of Kazakhstan. This development is a key component of the broader Future Growth Project/Wellhead Pressure Management Project (FGP/WPMP), which represents a significant investment in Kazakhstan’s oil infrastructure with an estimated total cost of $46.7 billion.

The joint venture is strategically composed of Chevron, holding a 50% stake, ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Ventures with 25%, KazMunayGas at 20%, and Lukoil International covering the remaining 5%. The primary aim of the WPMP is to enhance the capacity of the existing processing plants at the Tengiz oil field by managing wellhead pressures. This initiative will play a crucial role in maintaining the field’s production efficiency ahead of the completion of the FGP.

The WPMP’s operational launch included the transition of the initial metering station to low pressure, coupled with the activation of an associated pressure boost facility (PBF). This project is expected to increase Tengizchevroil’s production by approximately 12 million tons per year, or 260,000 barrels a day, upon the completion of the FGP, scheduled for the first half of 2025.

Kevin Lyon, General Director of Tengizchevroil, commented on the project’s progress, stating, “This is a major step in advancing our Future Growth Project to its safe completion and will also help maintain reliable performance at our base business at Tengiz.” This statement underlines the strategic importance of the WPMP in Tengizchevroil’s expansion and operational strategy.

The project has not only bolstered Kazakhstan’s oil production capabilities but also significantly contributed to the local economy. To date, more than $18 billion has been spent on Kazakhstani goods and services within the scope of the FGP-WPMP projects. Furthermore, approximately 4,000 local employees have received specialized training, enhancing the skill set within the local workforce.

Derek Magness, Managing Director of Chevron Eurasia, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, saying, “This accomplishment highlights the vital role of partnership. Together with the Republic of Kazakhstan and our other partners, we have safely started operations at the WPMP, which is a positive development as we continue our focus on the FGP-WPMP expansion project.”

The initiation of the WPMP marks a milestone in Tengizchevroil’s commitment to enhancing oil production capacity while supporting local economic development through substantial investments and training initiatives. This project not only promises increased oil outputs but also reinforces the strategic partnerships that make such expansive projects feasible.