Libya is entering a new chapter in its oil and gas sector with the launch of its first exploration bid round in 17 years. The Libyan government has officially announced the 2025 bid round, marking a crucial step in revitalizing the country’s energy industry.
This long-anticipated move is expected to attract foreign investment, stimulate exploration activities, and unlock the potential of Libya’s resource-rich basins, which have remained largely untapped for nearly two decades.
Momentum is already building within Libya’s energy sector, with several upstream developments highlighting the country’s renewed focus on growth and investment. Last month, Mellitah Oil and Gas Company resumed gas production at Well CC18 in the Bahr Essalam field, reinforcing Libya’s ability to meet both domestic and export demands. This increase in production from existing fields demonstrates Libya’s commitment to stabilizing and expanding its energy output. Meanwhile, Eni is advancing its offshore drilling campaign in the Sirte Basin, with four exploration wells planned for 2025. In the Ghadames Basin, BP is moving forward with a multi-well drilling campaign targeting oil and gas formations, leveraging seismic data and considering participation in the upcoming bid round.
Offshore infrastructure projects are also progressing. Eni’s Structures A&E Project is set to channel gas from two offshore fields to the Mellitah treatment plant, with construction and engineering work already underway. Offshore drilling for the Structure A platform is expected to begin in early 2025. Additionally, the Sabratha Compression Project is currently in execution, with operations set to commence later in the year. Meanwhile, ABL has been engaged to support Saipem in the installation of key equipment for the Bouri Gas Utilization Project, which aims to enhance offshore production capacity and advance Libya’s natural gas development.
Libya’s renewed emphasis on exploration and production is positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s evolving energy landscape, alongside Nigeria, Angola, and Namibia. This resurgence will take center stage at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025, a premier energy investment event where Libya will present its projects, attract foreign partners, and secure investments crucial for long-term growth. AEW 2025 will also serve as a platform for discussions on regulatory stability, infrastructure expansion, and strategies for maximizing Libya’s resource potential.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, emphasized the significance of this moment, stating: “The 2025 bid round represents a transformative opportunity for Libya, offering global investors a chance to engage with one of Africa’s most promising energy markets. With a renewed focus on growth and development, Libya is not only securing its own energy future but also emerging as a key player in Africa’s energy revolution.”
With exploration and production ramping up, offshore infrastructure advancing, and private sector participation increasing, Libya is making it clear that it is open for business. As Africa’s energy landscape evolves, Libya is poised to play a crucial role in cementing the continent’s position as a global energy powerhouse.