Eni makes new discoveries in Libya

Eni has made two new gas discoveries in Libya, jointly estimated as containing more than 1 Tcf of gas in place, as a result of its recent exploration campaign

Two adjacent geological structures, Bahr Essalam South 2 (BESS 2) and Bahr Essalam South 3 (BESS 3), were successfully drilled by the B2-16/4 and C1-16/4 wells, located approximately 85 km off the coast in about 650 feet of water, and 16 km south of the Bahr Essalam gas field.

Gas-bearing intervals were encountered in both wells within the Metlaoui Formation, the main productive reservoir of the area. The acquired data indicate the presence of a high quality reservoir, with productive capacity confirmed by the well test already carried out on the first well.

Initial estimates indicate that the BESS 2 and BESS 3 structures jointly contain more than 1 Tcf of gas in place. Their proximity to the Bahr Essalam field - the largest offshore field in the country, in operation since 2005 - will enable rapid development through tie-back to existing offshore facilities. The gas produced will be supplied to the Libyan domestic market and for export to Italy.

Eni has been present in Libya since 1959 and is the country’s leading international operator, with an equity production of approximately 162,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025. It is currently executing three development projects, two of which will start up in 2026.

Further discoveries by Eni could be in the pipeline, as in February, Eni was awarded the offshore exploration License O1 in the Libyan NOC’s competitive 2025 open licensing round. The concession has been granted to a consortium led by Eni in partnership with QatarEnergy, marking a significant step forward in strengthening Eni’s upstream position in the country.

Covering approximately 29.000 sq km, the block lies in the offshore extension of the prolific Sirte Oil & Gas Province and offers notable exploration potential. The block also features various hydrocarbon indications, including stranded oil and gas discoveries.

Under the terms of the agreement, Eni will operate the concession, with the consortium holding a 100% stake during the exploration and development phases. The partners plan to conduct 2D/3D seismic acquisition and drilling activities over the first five-year exploration period.

Gas from Libya has the potential to make a significant contribution to European energy security. The gas produced at the Wafa and Bahr Essalam fields is transported through the Green Stream gas pipeline to Italy. Through the offshore Structures A&E project, Eni’s largest gas project in Libya, scheduled for launch this year, Eni plans to increase its supplies to the domestic market as well as to Europe.