Azule Energy strikes major gas discovery offshore Angola
Azule Energy has announced a significant gas discovery at its Gajajeira-01 exploration well in Block 1/14 offshore Angola, marking a milestone as the country's first dedicated gas exploration well.
The well, spudded on 1 April in 95 metres of water depth approximately 60 kilometres off the coast, encountered gas and condensate-bearing sandstones in the Lower Oligocene target designated LO100. Preliminary results from wireline logging and fluid sampling indicate over 30 metres of net pay in reservoirs with good mobility.
Initial assessments suggest gas volumes in place could exceed 1 trillion cubic feet, with up to 100 million barrels of associated condensate. The discovery confirms the presence of a working hydrocarbon system and opens new exploration opportunities in the Lower Congo Basin.
Azule Energy operates the block with a 35% stake, partnering with Equinor (30%), Sonangol E&P (25%), and Acrep S.A. (10%). The company will continue assessing the full potential of the discovery whilst collaborating with partners to determine the optimal development strategy.
Paulino Jerónimo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Angola's National Agency of Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG), described the discovery as "a motivating factor in our ongoing efforts to attract private investment in the sector for the development and monetisation of natural gas."
He emphasised that the resource is vital for enhancing energy access and domestic consumption, as well as boosting Angola's petrochemical and fertiliser industries.
Adriano Mongini, CEO of Azule Energy, called it "a landmark moment for gas exploration in Angola," reinforcing confidence in the Lower Congo Basin's potential. The company remains committed to developing Angola's energy sector whilst supporting the transition to cleaner, more reliable energy sources.
Drilling operations continue, with the next target being the Lower Oligocene interval LO300. Azule Energy, an incorporated joint venture equally owned by BP and Eni, currently produces over 200,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day and also holds exploration interests in Namibia's Orange Basin.
