Italian multinational energy company Eni is about to take a key step in its expansion strategy in Asia. According to regulator SKK Migas, the company is expected to announce in March its final investment decision (FID) for two major deepwater gas developments in Indonesia: Geng North and Gendalo-Gendang.
Both projects will be managed by a joint venture formed between Eni and Malaysian state-owned Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), resulting from a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023. This collaboration will enable oversight of strategic assets in Indonesia and Malaysia, strengthening both companies’ presence in Southeast Asia.
Offshore Gas from the Kutai Basin
The projects are located off the coast of East Kalimantan, in the Kutai Basin, a key area for regional gas development. The investment is estimated at $15 billion, making it one of the largest expenditures in natural gas exploration and production in the region.
The initiative has the backing of the Indonesian government, which considers it a model for future developments in the country. The Geng North project, in particular, is scheduled to begin operations in late 2027, representing a fundamental component of the national strategy to boost energy supply.
Regional Energy Outlook
With the approval of these offshore developments, Eni not only strengthens its role in the Asian liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, but also consolidates a strategic route for energy cooperation between Italy, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Furthermore, the partnership with Petronas reinforces a joint approach toward energy security and the transition to cleaner fuels.
The decision expected in March will mark an operational milestone for Eni in Southeast Asia and confirm the commitment of the parties involved to projects with high economic and energy impact.
Source: Reuters
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