Alaska’s North Slope on cusp of potential revival
But difficulty accessing resources, particularly on federal land, is compounding the usual problems with operating in such a remote and unforgiving environment
The energy crisis of the 1970s helped propel Alaska to major oil producer status. And after over three decades of declining output despite the state having substantial resource potential, it appears the world’s latest energy crisis may contribute to an Alaskan oil revival. In August, Australian independent Santos, in partnership with Spanish energy company Repsol, announced FID to proceed with the first phase of the Pikka oil project in Alaska—a $3.7bn investment. “More carbon oil projects like Pikka Phase 1 are critical for global and US energy security,” says Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher. “We believe that this is the right project at the right time.” When Santos obtained its 51pc stake in Pi

Also in this section
24 July 2025
The reaction to proposed sanctions on Russian oil buyers has been muted, suggesting trader fatigue with Trump’s frequent bold and erratic threats
24 July 2025
Trump energy policies and changing consumer trends to upend oil supply and demand
24 July 2025
Despite significant crude projections over the next five years, Latin America’s largest economy could be forced to start importing unless action is taken
23 July 2025
The country’s energy minister explains in an exclusive interview how the country is taking a pragmatic and far-sighted approach to energy security and why he has great confidence in its oil sector