Galp’s Drillship Begins Ultra-Deepwater Exploration

In a bold move that underscores Namibia’s growing prominence in the global energy landscape, Portuguese energy giant Galp Energia has deployed the state-of-the-art Santorini drillship to explore the Mopane Complex offshore in the Orange Basin. The high-stakes operation follows a major oil and gas discovery in the region, estimated to hold at least 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent, potentially positioning Namibia as a leading producer in Africa’s energy sector.

The Santorini drillship, leased from Italian energy conglomerate Eni and owned by engineering powerhouse Saipem, is specifically tailored for ultra-deepwater operations. Known for its previous work on Eni’s Baleine field off Côte d’Ivoire, the vessel is equipped with cutting-edge well-control technology and an impressive 20,000-tonne payload capacity. This high-capacity design enables longer intervals between supply runs, significantly reducing operating costs and increasing efficiency in remote offshore environments. With accommodations for up to 215 personnel, the Santorini is well-prepared to meet the rigorous demands of deep-sea exploration in the complex conditions of the Mopane Complex.

The decision to launch this ultra-deepwater campaign highlights Galp’s commitment to harnessing the untapped potential of Namibia’s petroleum reserves. Holding an 80% interest in Petroleum Exploration License 83 (PEL 83), Galp leads the exploration of nearly 10,000 square kilometers in the Orange Basin. Partners NAMCOR, Namibia’s national oil company, and Custos, an independent exploration group, each hold a 10% stake in the license. Their combined efforts aim to unlock a substantial new source of oil, which could drive economic growth, employment, and energy security for Namibia.

In the first half of 2024, Galp invested N$2.1 billion into Namibia’s upstream energy sector, underscoring the Orange Basin’s appeal for international investors. The recent discovery and subsequent deployment of the Santorini drillship represent a strategic shift for Galp as it focuses on high-impact assets in Africa.

"Galp’s exploration strategy aligns with Namibia’s ambition to develop its natural resources responsibly, bringing transformative benefits to our people and economy," noted a spokesperson from NAMCOR. The new campaign at Mopane Complex holds immense potential for Namibia, as it could place the country at the forefront of energy production in Africa, enhancing energy independence and strengthening regional energy supplies.

The high-stakes campaign is not only significant for Galp and its partners but also for Namibia as it transitions into a globally recognized energy hub. Should the Mopane Complex exploration yield positive results, the discovery will reinforce Namibia's place on the energy map, attracting further foreign investment and bolstering its emerging energy sector.

With global demand for oil projected to remain strong in the coming decades, Galp’s ultra-deepwater campaign at the Mopane Complex could set the stage for long-term strategic partnerships and economic opportunities within Namibia, making it a vital player in the global energy arena.