Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Energy major BP has announced a new gas and condensate discovery in Egypt’s offshore Mediterranean waters following successful drilling at the Denise W-1 exploration well in the Temsah Concession.
The well is located around 70 kilometres offshore in water depths of approximately 95 metres and lies less than 10 kilometres from existing production infrastructure, improving its potential for fast-track development.
Strategic Find in a Mature Gas Basin
The discovery is situated in the Eastern Mediterranean, a region that has become increasingly important for global energy exploration amid rising demand and supply volatility.
The reservoir is reported to share similar geological characteristics with the nearby Temsah and Akhen fields, which have been producing since 2001. High-quality gas-bearing sandstone formations were encountered across a gross interval of roughly 90 metres.
The announcement comes as regional gas activity intensifies, including the restart of operations at Israel’s Leviathan field, reinforcing the Eastern Mediterranean’s status as a key energy-producing zone.
Concession Structure and Partners
BP holds a 50% working interest in the Temsah Concession, alongside Eni, which also holds 50% and operates the concession through Petrobel, a joint venture with Egypt’s state petroleum sector.
The concession renewal was previously secured through a binding agreement with Egypt’s Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation and Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, extending operations for 20 years.
Expansion of Offshore Activity in Egypt
BP has been expanding its offshore exploration footprint in Egypt, including new concessions such as North-East El Alamein Offshore (100% BP) and West El Hammad Offshore (25% BP, 75% Eni as operator). These blocks are positioned near existing infrastructure, supporting cost-efficient development strategies.
The company has also deployed the drilling rig DS-12 for a multi-well campaign in deepwater environments aimed at boosting Egypt’s domestic gas output.
In addition, BP signed an agreement with Egypt’s GANOPE for exploration in Block 6 in the Red Sea, marking its entry into a new frontier region.
Long-Term Presence in Egypt’s Energy Sector
BP has operated in Egypt for more than six decades and continues to play a major role in offshore exploration and production. The company describes the Temsah discovery as part of a broader series of exploration successes, contributing to ongoing efforts to strengthen regional gas supply.
The Eastern Mediterranean continues to attract international energy investment as companies seek to capitalize on established infrastructure and growing global demand for natural gas.
