TotalEnergies secures four offshore Liberia exploration blocks, aiming for large-scale discoveries while leveraging deepwater expertise and low-emission development strategies.
TotalEnergies has successfully secured four offshore exploration permits in Liberia, marking a significant step in the company’s global exploration strategy. The awards were granted following the 2024 Direct Negotiation Licensing Round organized by the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Agency, reflecting the government’s continued efforts to attract international investment in the country’s hydrocarbon sector. The four Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) pertain to the LB-6, LB-11, LB-17, and LB-29 exploration blocks, collectively covering an expansive area of approximately 12,700 square kilometers in the southern portion of the Liberia Basin.
As part of the initial work program for these newly awarded blocks, TotalEnergies will undertake one firm 3D seismic survey. This survey is a crucial first step in understanding the subsurface characteristics of the blocks and identifying potential hydrocarbon prospects. The data gathered will inform future exploration and development decisions and enable the company to target zones with the highest probability of successful discoveries.
Kevin McLachlan, Senior Vice-President Exploration at TotalEnergies, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for re-engaging with Liberia’s offshore sector. He emphasized that entering these four blocks is consistent with TotalEnergies’ broader strategy of diversifying its exploration portfolio into promising, underexplored basins. According to McLachlan, the Liberia offshore blocks present opportunities for identifying high-potential prospects capable of yielding substantial discoveries. These discoveries, if successful, could support cost-effective and environmentally responsible developments, aligning with TotalEnergies’ commitment to low-emission operations.
The Liberia Basin has long been recognized for its favorable geological conditions, which suggest considerable potential for new oil discoveries. By participating in these blocks, TotalEnergies aims to leverage its extensive experience in deepwater exploration and production, applying advanced technologies and operational expertise to unlock the basin’s potential. The company sees this as a timely and strategic move to enhance its upstream portfolio while contributing to Liberia’s energy sector growth.
The acquisition of these four PSCs underscores TotalEnergies’ proactive approach to identifying and investing in high-value exploration opportunities worldwide. Beyond the immediate technical work of seismic acquisition and analysis, the company anticipates fostering collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure sustainable development practices. These projects also highlight TotalEnergies’ commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, delivering long-term value for both the company and the Liberian nation.
In summary, the four newly awarded offshore blocks in Liberia represent a strategic opportunity for TotalEnergies to expand its exploration footprint, apply deepwater expertise, and pursue potentially large-scale, low-emission hydrocarbon developments.
