Ivory Coast Achieves Major Milestone with Phase 2 Launch of Net-Zero Baleine Field

Project marks Africa’s first net-zero emissions upstream initiative, solidifying Ivory Coast’s status as a regional energy leader.

Eni, the energy supermajor, has announced the successful launch of Phase 2 of its flagship Baleine field, located offshore Ivory Coast. This development represents a monumental achievement, not only as the country’s largest hydrocarbon discovery but also as Africa’s first net-zero emissions upstream project, addressing Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

The project, executed in collaboration with Ivory Coast's national oil company, Petroci, underscores the nation’s growing prominence as a key energy player in West Africa. This achievement comes only two years after the Final Investment Decision (FID) and 18 months after the initiation of Phase 1 production.

Phase 2: Unlocking Ivory Coast’s Offshore Potential

With the commencement of Phase 2, the Baleine field’s production capacity has surged to 60,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) and 70 million cubic feet of associated gas. Central to this phase is the deployment of the FPSO Petrojarl Kong and the FSO Yamoussoukro. These vessels are critical in facilitating energy exports while also ensuring a steady supply of resources for domestic energy needs.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) has lauded this milestone as a testament to effective governance, innovative partnerships, and efficient project execution. “This project highlights Ivory Coast’s potential to serve as a model for future African oil and gas development,” remarked AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk.

Future Phases and Regional Impacts

Building on this momentum, Eni is preparing to launch Phase 3 of the Baleine project, which is currently under evaluation. This phase aims to further boost production to 150,000 bpd of oil and 200 million cubic feet of gas, positioning Ivory Coast as a major energy hub in the region.

Complementing the Baleine success, Eni discovered the Calao field in Block CI-205 in March 2024, estimated to hold 1.5 billion barrels of oil. Plans are underway to commence production by 2026, with the project anticipated to generate 8,000 jobs and significantly enhance the country’s energy security.

Ivory Coast’s Strategic Role in West Africa’s Energy Sector

Ivory Coast is rapidly establishing itself as a powerhouse in the oil and gas industry. The country’s attractive regulatory framework, competitive fiscal terms, and significant hydrocarbon reserves have drawn investments from global energy giants, positioning it as a regional leader in energy exploration and production.

Beyond revenue generation, projects like Baleine and Calao are set to drive local content development, reduce energy poverty, and contribute to economic growth. The Baleine field’s net-zero emissions status also aligns with global sustainability goals, further enhancing Ivory Coast’s reputation as a forward-looking energy producer.

AEC’s Vision for Ivory Coast’s Energy Future

“The AEC is committed to supporting Ivory Coast’s initiatives to reduce energy poverty, promote local content, and foster economic development,” said Ayuk. “The Baleine field exemplifies what is possible when innovation aligns with effective governance, making Ivory Coast a benchmark for the future of energy development in Africa.”

As the nation looks to the future, the successful implementation of these projects promises a transformative era for Ivory Coast, both economically and in its contributions to the global energy market.