What's Happening?
Croatian oil and gas company INA has announced the discovery of new offshore natural gas reserves in the Northern Adriatic. This follows the successful drilling and early testing of a development well on the IKA-A production platform. The IKA A-1 R DIR
well, drilled by Crosco’s jackup rig Labin, is the first of two planned development wells in the current drilling campaign. Initial production from the well is averaging about 120,000 cubic meters per day of natural gas, making it INA’s second most productive gas well in Croatia. The gas produced during testing is being routed through existing infrastructure and delivered directly into Croatia’s national gas system. INA estimates the newly developed reserves at approximately 220 million cubic meters of natural gas, equivalent to about 1.3 million barrels of oil equivalent. The project marks the start of a new offshore investment cycle aimed at boosting domestic gas output.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of new gas reserves by INA is significant for Croatia's energy security, especially amid global gas market volatility. By increasing domestic gas production, Croatia can reduce its reliance on imported energy, which is crucial for maintaining stable energy prices and supply. This development also highlights the potential for further exploration and production in the Adriatic Sea, which could lead to more investments and job creation in the region. Additionally, leveraging existing infrastructure to access untapped reservoirs demonstrates an efficient use of resources, potentially lowering operational costs and environmental impact.
What's Next?
INA plans to continue its offshore drilling activities through 2026, with the second development well, IKA A-4 R DIR, expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. Both wells will be fully integrated into the IKA-A platform following completion and technical adjustments. This ongoing investment in offshore drilling is part of INA's strategy to enhance Croatia's energy independence and security. The company’s efforts may also encourage other energy firms to explore similar opportunities in the region, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation in the energy sector.
