Shell demonstrates renewed focus on hydrocarbons
Gulf of Mexico moves suggest cautious optimism in region’s deep waters, with a shift to work smarter and balance risks
Two FIDs in quick succession by Shell in the US Gulf of Mexico (GOM) demonstrate the major’s renewed focus on oil and gas. In mid-December, Shell announced an FID on a phased campaign to add three wells in the Great White unit, boosting production at the company’s Perdido spar. This was followed later in December by the announcement that Shell and partner Norway’s Equinor had taken FID on Sparta, which will be Shell’s 15th deepwater platform in the GOM. The FIDs also illustrate the continuing trends in deepwater drilling. Some operators have remained hesitant to pursue new deepwater exploration, opting instead to expand production at existing platforms by drilling new wells in already produc
![](/images/white-fade.png)
Also in this section
26 July 2024
Oil majors play it safe amid unfavourable terms in latest oil and gas licensing bid rounds allowing Chinese low-ball moves
25 July 2024
Despite huge efforts by India’s government to accelerate crude production, India’s dependency shows no sign of easing
24 July 2024
Diesel and jet fuel supplies face a timebomb in just four years, and even gasoline may not be immune
23 July 2024
Rosneft’s Arctic megaproject is happening despite sanctions, a lack of foreign investment and OPEC+ restrictions. But it will take a long time for its colossal potential to be realised