Azule Energy makes landmark gas discovery in Angola’s Block 1/14

LUANDA, July 14, 2025 – Azule Energy has discovered more than 28.3 bcm (1 tcf) of gas and up to 100 million barrels of condensate in a shallow water well in Angola’s Block 1/14, the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency (ANPG) said on Monday.

The Gajajeira-1 exploration probe, which is currently being drilled in the Lower Congo Basin, encountered gas- and condensate-bearing reservoirs in the Lower Oligocene LO100 interval. Azule, a joint venture between BP and Eni, is operator of the block with a 35% stake. Partners include Equinor with 30%, Sonangol E&P with 25% and Acrep with 10%.

Drilling began on April 1, 2025 in 95 metres of water, approximately 60 kilometres offshore. The ANPG confirmed that the well had intersected multiple high-pressure, high-temperature reservoirs with good mobility, adding that the LO300 target would be drilled next.

Adriano Mongini, CEO of Azule Energy, said, “This is a landmark moment for gas exploration in Angola. The Gajajeira-1 well is the first dedicated gas exploration well in the country and its success reinforces our confidence in the potential of the Lower Congo Basin.”

The government’s recent legislative reforms, led by President João Lourenço, have created new incentives for gas exploration by assigning value to the resource, a departure from earlier policy that saw gas remain under direct state ownership.

The discovery marks a significant milestone for Angola’s upstream gas sector.

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