KEY POINTS
- ACREP plans to start exploration in Angola’s Cabinda Norte Block in 2025, targeting untapped onshore oil reserves.
- Over 20 wells drilled since 1968 remain undeveloped due to delays, now resolved with reopened infrastructure.
- Feasibility studies will evaluate production capacity, aiming to unlock Cabinda Norte’s economic viability and boost Angola’s oil output.
Angola’s ACREP, an upstream oil exploration company, announced plans to commence operations in the onshore Cabinda Norte Block in 2025. This marks a significant milestone in Angola’s efforts to boost domestic oil production and tap into the untapped potential of its northern region.
The Cabinda Norte Block has long been under consideration for exploration, with over 20 wells drilled since 1968. But bureaucratic hurdles and infrastructure challenges stalled development for decades. ACREP’s Operations Director, Idónio dos Santos, confirmed that these issues have been resolved, paving the way for renewed exploration efforts.
Strategic focus on economic viability
According to EnergyCapitalPower, ACREP’s upcoming operations will focus on assessing the block’s economic viability. Feasibility studies will be conducted to evaluate production potential and determine the block’s capacity to contribute to Angola’s oil output.
“This is a critical step in unlocking the value of Cabinda Norte, which has been dormant for far too long,” dos Santos stated. He highlighted the importance of infrastructure development, including the reopening of roads and essential facilities, as key enablers for the project’s success.
Revitalizing Cabinda’s oil sector
Cabinda, a northern enclave rich in hydrocarbons, has historically been a significant contributor to Angola’s oil production. However, the Cabinda Norte Block remained underutilized due to logistical and administrative setbacks. ACREP’s renewed interest in the block aligns with Angola’s broader strategy to diversify its oil operations and maximize onshore production.
Angola, Africa’s second-largest oil producer, is seeking to sustain its position as a global energy player. The government has recently introduced reforms to attract investment and improve the regulatory framework for oil exploration, a move that has garnered interest from both local and international companies.
Key milestones ahead
The exploration activities in Cabinda Norte will follow a phased approach, beginning with geological surveys and feasibility studies. Depending on the outcomes, ACREP plans to commence drilling operations, potentially unlocking a significant new oil reserve.
Experts suggest that the success of the Cabinda Norte exploration could bolster Angola’s production capacity and support its economic diversification goals. The project is also expected to create local employment opportunities and enhance regional infrastructure.
As ACREP prepares to launch its exploration efforts, all eyes are on the Cabinda Norte Block as a potential game-changer for Angola’s oil industry. The company’s ability to navigate operational complexities and deliver results will be pivotal in shaping the future of onshore oil production in the country.
