Energy Milestone Year Ahead for Guyana-Suriname Basin
- Further expansion of the energy value chain in Guyana and Suriname is expected in 2026, as stakeholders fast-track actions to monetise hydrocarbon resources and balance the energy transition.
- Building on the seamless incorporation of new production phases, the fifth stage, Uaru, of Guyana's Stabroek flagship deepwater acreage is scheduled to come online with 250,000 barrels per day (b/d). Development drilling may also begin for Stabroek's seventh phase, Hammerhead.
- On the exploration front, seismic acquisition is on the radar, with planned shoots across shallow water lots 1, 2, 3 and 4, which include blocks awarded in Guyana's first offshore licensing round. There is also talk that a second offshore round will be launched in the new year.
- Meanwhile, the 300 mega-watt (MW) power plant that is part of Guyana's gas-to-energy project is pencilled in to enter service toward the end of 2026. The project includes a gas pipeline and a natural gas liquids component. Results are also due in the coming weeks and months for calls to build an ammonia and urea plant, to establish a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) bottling and logistics company, and to advance the 165MW Amaila Falls hydro project.
- For Suriname, a second final investment decision (FID) to tap its offshore resources could come in 2026 and would target natural gas at block 52, following the first FID for the GranMorgu oil project at block 58. In November, a declaration of commerciality was announced for block 52's Sloanea field.
- As in Guyana, gas is forecast to play an increasing role in Suriname's energy mix, particularly for power generation. Additionally, Suriname's government has pinned hopes on national oil company Staatsolie's open-door offering for offshore acreage, which covers five sectors totalling over 70,000km² in water depths ranging from five to 3,000m. Expectations are also high following the signing of production sharing contracts for offshore blocks 9 and 10.
(Source: Bnamericas)