Eni’s latest milestone in the offshore gas production sector has been achieved with the startup of operations at the Argo Cassiopea field, located in the Strait of Sicily. This～project marks a significant achievement, given that it has only been three years since the onset of construction.
### Initial Production and Pipeline Transport
The initial production is being generated from one of four subsea wells drilled in recent months. This remarkable feat of engineering ensures that the gas is efficiently transported through a 60 km subsea pipeline to the Gela processing plant. The Gela complex is where the gas will be processed and prepared for its ultimate destination: Italy’s national grid.
### Environmental and Sustainable Initiatives
Eni has emphasized that production at Argo Cassiopea is conducted entirely underwater, resulting in no visual impact on the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the project boasts near-zero emissions, adhering to Eni’s commitment to sustainable energy practices. Additionally, a dedicated installation of 3.6 MW peak photovoltaic panels will ensure that the project achieves carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
### Production Reserves and Peak Annual Output
Argo Cassiopea holds an estimated 10 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas reserves, with expected peak annual production reaching 1.5 bcm. This substantial contribution to Italy’s energy supply underscores Eni’s strategic focus on leveraging domestic natural gas for energy security and as a low-emission source.
### Joint Venture Partnership
The production at Argo Cassiopea is operated by Eni in a joint venture with Energean, highlighting the collaboration and shared commitment to sustainable energy development in the region. It is worth noting that Energean is in the process of selling its stake in Argo Cassiopea, along with other E&P interests in the Mediterranean Sea, to an entity controlled by Carlyle International Energy Partners