Azule Energy, a joint venture owned equally by bp Plc and Eni SpA, have announced a major gas discovery at its Gajajeira-01 exploration well, located offshore in the Lower Congo Basin, Republic of Angola. The exploration well is being developed in partnership with the National Agency of Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG) and the Contractor Group of Block 1/14, operated by Azule Energy (35%), Equinor (30%), Sonangol E&P (25%), and Acrep S.A. (10%)
The well was spudded on 1 April 2025 in a water depth of 95 m, approximately 60 km off the coast. It encountered gas- and condensate-bearing sandstones in one of the Lower Oligocene targets, designated LO100.
The preliminary results and fluid samples indicate several reservoirs with good mobility. Initial assessments suggest that gas volumes on site may exceed 1 trillion cubic feet, with up to 100 million bbls of associated condensate.
These results confirm the presence of a working hydrocarbon system and open new exploration opportunities in the area. Azule Energy will continue to assess the full potential of the Gajajeira-01 discovery and collaborate with Block 1/14 partners to determine the optimal development strategy.
The first section was safely drilled using advanced formation evaluation and control tools to assess reservoir quality and fluid characteristics, prioritizing the safety of operations.
“These new discoveries are a motivating factor in our ongoing efforts to attract private investment in the sector for the development and monetization of natural gas,” said Paulino Jerónimo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ANPG. “This resource is vital for enhancing energy access and domestic consumption, as well as for boosting Angola’s petrochemical and fertilizer industries.”
“This is a landmark moment for gas exploration in Angola,” commented Adriano Mongini, CEO of Azule Energy. “Gajajeira-01 is the country’s first dedicated gas exploration well, and its success reinforces our confidence in the potential of the Lower Congo Basin. We are proud to contribute to Angola’s long-term energy development with a focus on sustainability and energy security.”
Drilling operations are ongoing, with the next target being the last Lower Oligocene interval LO300.
About Azule Energy
Azule Energy is an incorporated joint venture (IJV) equally owned by bp Plc and Eni SpA. The company produces over 200,000 boed, and also has exploration interests in Namibia’s Orange Basin.
