Iran talks the talk on Caspian gas
The Chalous deposit is both significant and conveniently located for potential export purposes. But production is likely a long way off
A subsidiary of National Iranian Oil Co. (NIOC) caused something of a stir this summer with claims that the identification of new resources in the country’s Caspian Sea sector could see Iran supply 20pc of European gas demand. “If the initial estimates [at Chalous] are confirmed and exploration success is achieved,” Khazar Exploration and Production Co. (Kepco) CEO Ali Osouli said on his company’s website, “the Iranian sector of the Caspian Sea will play a significant role in gas exports to Europe in the near future. Iran’s new gas hub will be formed in the north to let the country supply 20pc of Europe’s gas needs from this region”. The suggestion was quickly seized on by political analysts
Also in this section
6 February 2026
The long close relationship between key supplier Qatar and pivotal buyer Japan becomes even deeper following new landmark deal
6 February 2026
Partnerships across the LNG value chain have evolved over time, growing in both complexity and importance, according to panellists at LNG2026
6 February 2026
Nigeria's mega-refinery is still trying to solve many challenges, all while its owner talks up expansion
5 February 2026
While broadly supportive of EU efforts to tackle methane emissions, representatives of the gas industry warn it could deter supply contracting if timelines and compliance requirements are not made more pragmatic






