Eni Announces Gas Production at the Argo Cassiopea Field in the Strait of Sicily
**Introduction:**
Eni, in collaboration with Energean, has marked a significant milestone in the Italian offshore energy sector with the commencement of gas production at the Argo Cassiopea field in the Strait of Sicily. This achievement is a testament to the company’s commitment to enhancing Italy’s energy security and reducing emissions.
**Project Overview:**
The Argo Cassiopea production project has reached its initial production phase, exactly three years after the start of works. Initial gas production is coming from one of four subsea wells drilled in recent months. The wells are strategically located in the Strait of Sicily, an area renowned for its rich hydrocarbon reserves.
**Production Process:**
The extracted gas is transported via a 60-kilometer subsea pipeline to the Gela processing plant. This extensive pipeline network ensures the efficient transportation of the gas, minimizing the environmental impact of the operation. The gas will then undergo processing at the Gela complex before being fed into Italy’s national grid.
**Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality:**
A key aspect of the Argo Cassiopea project is its commitment to sustainability. The production site features a dedicated installation of 3.6 megawatts peak of photovoltaic panels, which will ensure the project achieves carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions. This initiative aligns with Eni’s broader strategy to enhance domestic natural gas usage as a low-emission energy source.
**Operational Details:**
Eni is the operator, holding a 60% stake in the joint venture, while Energean holds the remaining 40%. The project marks a significant development in Eni’s offshore drilling operations, demonstrating the company’s ability to execute complex projects efficiently. The subsea wells have been drilled entirely under the sea, resulting in no visible onshore impact and near-zero environmental