Pedro Ribeiro, Managing Director and Country Chair for TotalEnergies in Libya has outlined the company’s ambitious plans to enhance field performance, increase production at the Waha and Sharara oil fields, and advance exploration efforts in the Murzuq Basin.
With over six decades of presence in Libya, TotalEnergies has established itself as a key player in the country’s oil and gas sector, contributing significantly to national production records that have recently surpassed 1.4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (mboe/d).
Ribeiro emphasized the company’s commitment to its partnerships with the National Oil Corporation (NOC), stating, “TotalEnergies is proud to have contributed to the development of Libyan oil and gas production.”
He noted that both Waha and Sharara have achieved their highest daily production rates in over a decade, with Waha exceeding 370,000 barrels per day (kbo/d) and Sharara surpassing 300 kbo/d. TotalEnergies’ strategy for further production expansion in Libya is threefold.
“The company is focused on optimizing the performance of the operating fields: infills, reinstatement and maintenance of installations, wells stimulation, etc.
“The recent production records of Waha and Sharara have shown how significant are the outcomes of such a steady effort.”
Pedro Ribeiro, Managing Director and Country Chair for TotalEnergies in Libya
Also, Ribeiro revealed that TotalEnergies is planning to restart the Mabruk oil field in 2025, utilizing an early production facility (EPF) designed to initially produce 25 kbo/d, with potential for higher output as operations ramp up.
Additionally, he noted that projects in the Waha and Sharara fields are also under evaluation, indicating a proactive approach to expanding production capabilities.
The company has resumed exploration activities in Libya’s Murzuq Basin, marking a significant step forward after a prolonged suspension.
“Libya holds a strategic position in TotalEnergies’ global upstream portfolio with its large, significantly untapped and low emitting resources.
“TotalEnergies is committed to further contribute to Libya’s production expansion.”
Pedro Ribeiro, Managing Director and Country Chair for TotalEnergies in Libya
Current Status of Waha Production
Ribeiro provided an optimistic outlook on the current status of Waha’s production baseline. He revealed that a comprehensive production enhancement initiative launched in 2023 aims to increase output by up to 120 kbo/d.
“By mobilizing drilling and work-over rigs, drilling wells, restoring the integrity and potential of the wells, renewing equipment and piping and reinstating water injection systems, significant outcomes have been targeted and achieved.”
Pedro Ribeiro, Managing Director and Country Chair for TotalEnergies in Libya
The recent achievement of daily production records at Waha underscores the effectiveness of this strategy, although Ribeiro acknowledged that challenges remain.
Additionally, TotalEnergies is collaborating with the NOC on the ambitious North Gialo project, which has the potential to further increase Waha’s production by an additional 100 kbo/d.
Ribeiro stressed plans are in place to spud an exploration well in 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustained growth in the region.
Commitment to Sustainability and Emission Reduction
TotalEnergies has also made significant strides in addressing environmental concerns, particularly in reducing gas flaring and methane emissions in the Waha fields.
Ribeiro detailed the company’s initiatives, including its participation in the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC) launched at COP28, which aims for near-zero methane emissions by 2030.
He highlighted the NOC’s “Mubadara 2030” initiative, which seeks to minimize gas flaring across all fields and eliminate it entirely by 2030.
To achieve these ambitious goals, TotalEnergies is implementing several concrete actions.
“One notable initiative is the deployment of AUSEA technology—drone-mounted sensors that provide precise emissions readings from hard-to-reach areas.
“This technology is expected to play a crucial role in monitoring and reducing methane emissions.”
Pedro Ribeiro, Managing Director and Country Chair for TotalEnergies in Libya
Furthermore, the Mabruk EPF is designed to recover all produced gas for heating needs, marking a significant advancement in sustainable practices within Libya’s oil sector.
Ribeiro emphasized TotalEnergies’ role as a responsible energy producer, committed to promoting best environmental practices and ensuring that Libyan oil and gas operations have minimal impact on the environment.
TotalEnergies’ strategic plans for Libya reflect a comprehensive approach to enhancing production while prioritizing sustainability.
With a clear focus on optimizing existing fields, exploring new opportunities, and reducing emissions, the company is well-positioned to contribute to Libya’s energy landscape for years to come.
As the nation seeks to navigate the complexities of the global energy market, TotalEnergies’ commitment to responsible and sustainable practices will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Libya’s oil and gas industry.
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