The Italian energy giant Eni has announced two significant new gas discoveries off the Libyan coast, with preliminary estimates indicating reserves of more than one trillion cubic feet. These discoveries were made following the successful drilling of two adjacent geological structures, Bahr Essalam South 2 and Bahr Essalam South 3, as part of an exploration campaign launched in recent months. The exploration reinforces Libya’s strategic position in the Mediterranean energy landscape and marks a major milestone in the company’s recent activities.
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According to Eni, the drilling operations took place at two wells located approximately 85 kilometers offshore in water depths of about 650 feet, situated 16 kilometers south of the existing Bahr Essalam gas field. The company confirmed that gas-bearing intervals were encountered in the Metlaoui Formation—the region’s primary productive reservoir—with data indicating a high-quality reservoir and production capacity already validated by tests on the first well. Due to their proximity to the Bahr Essalam field, Eni plans to fast-track the development of these discoveries by tying them into existing offshore infrastructure, with the produced gas destined for both the Libyan domestic market and export to Italy.