What are Perenco’s priorities for upcoming drilling campaigns in the Congo?

Perenco’s permit in Congo is extensive, with many untapped opportunities. From mid-2025, we will operate two to three drilling rigs continuously for at least two years. Our schedule is project-driven, prioritizing sites with the highest potential.

Perenco aims to increase production in Congo from 80,000 to over 100,000 barrels per day in the next few years by optimizing offshore fields, including Emeraude, and revaluing mature fields. What strategies have you put in place to achieve this goal?

The Emeraude field holds over 5 billion barrels, but its recovery rate remains low. Despite previous development efforts, its full potential has yet to be unlocked. Perenco is implementing specific solutions, such as ad hoc tools and small drilling machines, to increase flexibility, reduce costs, and minimize personnel needs. Our approach includes installing small, modular drilling rigs to drill upon existing infrastructure. A new campaign starting in September will use upgraded quadripods to drill further into untouched areas.

Beyond Emeraude, Perenco manages a diverse portfolio across Congo, with many existing permits offering further development opportunities. Our ability to optimize recovery and manage costs sets us apart. For instance, at Boatou, which had remained undeveloped for decades, production started at over 5,000 barrels per day in 2023-2024 and now stands at 3,500 barrels per day, proving its profitability. We are also optimizing existing wells and pipeline networks to enhance production. Our strategy combines new field developments, surface optimizations, and continuous infrastructure improvements, ensuring long-term growth in Congo.

Gas valorization is a major focus in Congo. Can you tell us about Perenco’s Tchendo project and its contribution to the country’s energy sector?

Tchendo is a 27 MW offshore gas plant installed on a converted drilling rig. This project gives Perenco energy autonomy by utilizing gas produced alongside oil from our fields, eliminating the need to purchase gas externally. Tchendo serves as a strategic hub, distributing electricity across our facilities while integrating with a gas-gathering network that extends from Boatou-Likoula in the south to Yanga-Sendji in the north.

Our gas valorization strategy not only has financial benefits but also aligns with our environmental goals. Reducing flaring is a priority, and by 2030, we aim to cut flaring by 50%. This initiative reflects Perenco’s broader commitment to responsible energy production.

The next major campaign begins in May at Tchibouela-Est, followed by Masseko, and later Emeraude in September-October. A separate campaign at the Marine 28 permit is also planned, following successful drillings in 2023 and 2024. The results of these campaigns will guide our exploration strategy through 2025-2026.

What ESG initiatives has Perenco implemented in Congo?

Our ESG strategy is built on four pillars: health, education, environmental sustainability and local content.

In health, we have constructed three health centers in Yongam, Adingo-Kai, and Suanke and are finalizing a reference hospital in Olombo. We also support the Loukabou School for paramedical training, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled healthcare workers.

In education, we partner with the Lycée d’Excellence in Mbounda and offer scholarships for students at UCAC-ICAM and other universities. Our “M’Buma” program recruits and trains young engineers through a two-year rotation across various projects.

Environmental efforts include sponsoring activities in Conkouati Park and launching a plastic-to-fuel pyrolysis project. This initiative, already in place in Tunisia and Gabon, aims to transform waste into a useful energy source.

On local content, Perenco prioritizes partnerships with Congolese companies such as SNPC, Petco, and COS. We also invest in employee well-being through sports programs like the 10 km of Pointe-Noire and workplace health initiatives.

Through these efforts, Perenco is committed to sustainable development and long-term value creation in Congo.