CNOOC Limited has announced the successful commencement of production at its Dongfang 1-1 Gas Field 13-3 Block Development Project, marking a significant advancement in China's offshore natural gas capabilities.
CNOOC Limited, China's largest producer of offshore crude oil and natural gas, today announced a major milestone with the commencement of production at the Dongfang 1-1 Gas Field 13-3 Block Development Project. This innovative undertaking, located in the Yinggehai Basin at an average water depth of approximately 67 meters, represents a significant leap forward in offshore exploration and production technology, being the nation's inaugural high-temperature, high-pressure, low-permeability natural gas project.
The Dongfang 1-1 Gas Field 13-3 Block Development Project is set to revolutionize natural gas extraction in challenging offshore environments. Its primary production facility is a cutting-edge, new unmanned wellhead platform, which leverages the existing, robust processing infrastructure of the broader Dongfang gas fields. This strategic approach not only optimizes operational efficiency but also significantly reduces the need for extensive new construction, reflecting CNOOC Limited's commitment to sustainable and cost-effective development.
A total of six development wells are slated for commissioning within the project. Industry experts anticipate that the project will achieve a peak production rate of approximately 35 million cubic feet of natural gas per day by 2026. This substantial output is poised to play a crucial role in meeting the growing energy demands of the region.
A key strategic element of this development is the seamless integration of the new Dongfang 1-1 gas field with the existing Dongfang 13-2 gas field facilities. This connection has enabled CNOOC Limited to successfully establish a comprehensive and integrated offshore gas production network within the vital Yinggehai Basin. Such a network is paramount for ensuring a stable and reliable supply of natural gas, a critical resource for sustained economic and social development across the southern provinces.
The enhanced natural gas supply from this project is expected to provide robust support for the economic prosperity of Guangdong, the bustling financial hub of Hong Kong, and the rapidly developing Hainan province. These regions are increasingly reliant on clean energy sources to fuel their industries, power their communities, and reduce their carbon footprint. The Dongfang 1-1 project directly contributes to China's energy security and its broader environmental goals.
CNOOC Limited proudly holds a 100% interest in this pioneering project and will serve as the sole operator, underscoring its significant expertise and leadership in offshore oil and gas development. The successful commencement of production at Dongfang 1-1 Gas Field 13-3 Block Development Project reaffirms CNOOC Limited's position at the forefront of technological innovation and its commitment to delivering essential energy resources for the nation's continued growth.
