Following the discovery of the field by Eni in 2015, Egypt aimed to establish itself as a leading gas exporter. However, domestic gas production has been declining since 2021, reaching its lowest level in six years by 2024.
In the first half of 2024, average production at Zohr was recorded at 1.9 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d), significantly lower than the peak levels seen in 2019.
A representative from the Italian energy company confirmed on Friday that Eni is preparing to restart drilling operations in the Zohr gas field located in the eastern Mediterranean, as previously indicated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources of Egypt.
The ministry's announcement was made late Thursday. The drilling ship 'Saipem 10000' is expected to arrive in Egypt in the upcoming weeks to initiate a drilling campaign utilizing advanced technologies aimed at enhancing gas production, the spokesperson noted.
Saipem 10000 is a specialized vessel operated by the Italian energy services firm Saipem.