Drilling has started for the exploitation of natural gas in the Neptun Deep perimeter

OMV Petrom and Romgaz have started drilling for the development and exploitation of natural gas fields in the Neptun Deep field, located 160 km offshore the Black Sea.

The project is progressing according to plan, with first production expected in 2027, the two companies announced.

Neptun Deep will contribute about eight billion cubic meters of natural gas annually to Romania's natural gas production, once the production plateau is reached.

For his part, Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja said that this is a historic moment, as gas from the Black Sea is a real and safe alternative for all Europeans, and the project will reduce dependence on Russia and strengthen Romania's economic position.

Translated by: Radu Matei