BP plans six new wells to boost Shah Deniz gas output

BP is expanding its operations in Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz gas field by adding six new wells to ensure stable production levels and meet rising gas export demands from the EU. This expansion is part of Azerbaijan's commitment to double its gas exports to the EU to at least 20 billion cubic metres annually by 2027, as alternatives to Russian supplies become increasingly necessary. The current output from the field has risen to approximately 28 billion cubic metres in 2024, up from 26 bcm in 2023, while maintaining a daily average of 76 million cubic metres. BP's vice president for the Caspian region, Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, stated that this new development will help sustain production plateau for several years. Despite a recent temporary disruption in gas flows to Bulgaria and Serbia due to technical issues, there are no planned maintenance shutdowns for the platforms this year. Meanwhile, the new Azeri Central East offshore platform, initiated last year, aims to counter the production decline from existing oilfields.