Chevron Corporation has marked a significant milestone in the oil and gas industry by starting oil and natural gas production from the Anchor field in the deepwater US Gulf of Mexico. Located approximately 225 kilometers off the Louisiana coast, the Anchor field is a testament to Chevron’s commitment to advancing deepwater technology and sustainable operations.
### Development Background
The development of the Anchor field began in December 2019. This project involves a system of subsea wells that are connected to a semi-submersible floating production unit (FPU). The Anchor FPU is designed to produce 75,000 barrels of oil per day and 28 million cubic feet per day of natural gas.
### Technological Innovations
The Anchor field is remarkable not only for its scale but also for its cutting-edge technology. The operation uses high-pressure subsea technology rated to operate at pressures of up to 20,000 psi. This technological prowess allows Chevron to access resources that were previously difficult to extract, revolutionizing the deepwater exploration landscape.
Reservoir depths in the Anchor field reach an impressive 34,000 feet below sea level. The project’s engineering team has successfully integrated this complex technology into a working system, ensuring both safety and efficiency.
### Sustainability Measures
In line with Chevron’s commitment to sustainability, the Anchor FPU was designed as an all-electric facility. This innovative design features electric motors and electronic controls to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the platform includes waste heat and vapor recovery units, which further enhance its environmental efficiency. The FPU leverages existing pipeline infrastructure to transport oil and natural gas directly to US Gulf Coast markets, reducing the carbon footprint of the operation.
### Stakeholder Involvement
Chevron operates the Anchor project with a 62.86% working interest, while co-owner TotalEnergies E&P USA holds the remaining 37.14%. This collaborative effort underscores the industry