Ecopetrol and OXY Expand Their Development Strategy in the Permian Basin
Ecopetrol S.A. and Occidental Petroleum Corp (known as OXY) have recently declared their agreement to extend their collaborative development plan focused on the Midland section of the iconic Permian Basin. This commitment to further investment and operational strategy marks a significant advancement for both companies, solidifying their partnership which was initially forged in July 2019.
The extension encompasses an ambitious drilling plan designed to execute 34 new wells slated for commencement between April 2025 and June 2026. This initiative will take place alongside a number of existing drilling activities scheduled for early 2025. One of the highlights of the agreement is the provision for potential future extensions of the development plan, a prospect that hinges on prevailing macroeconomic conditions, the state of the industry, and partners' interests.
In addition to the development in the Midland area, Ecopetrol and OXY will also maintain an independent contract focused on the adjacent Delaware sub-basin, ensuring ongoing operations that are expected to last until 2027. The successful collaboration of Ecopetrol Permian and OXY over the past five years in the Permian Basin has generated encouraging operational and financial results, significantly contributing to increased production and the overall success of the Ecopetrol Group.
The strategic 2025 plan for both the Midland and Delaware sub-basins aims to complete approximately 91 development wells. This initiative is backed by a notable investment of around $885 million, anticipating an average production rate of about 90,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, directly benefiting Ecopetrol Permian. This plan is pivotal in aligning with the broader strategy of the Ecopetrol Group, focusing on capital discipline and diversification within its portfolio.
The Permian Basin is celebrated as one of the world’s largest hydrocarbon reserves, notable for its exceptional productivity and advanced infrastructure that supports oil projects. Given the promising landscape of the Permian, Ecopetrol's ongoing efforts to enhance its operations and investments become a vital part of its growth strategy in the energy sector.
Ecopetrol itself stands as Colombia's largest company and one of the foremost integrated energy firms across the Americas, employing over 19,000 personnel. The corporation is a significant player in Colombia's hydrocarbons market, responsible for more than 60% of the country's production. Its operational reach extends to various facets, including transportation, logistics, and refining. Notably, with the acquisition of a controlling stake in the shares of ISA, it has broadened its participation into energy transmission, real-time system management, and infrastructure projects within Colombia and beyond. Additionally, Ecopetrol has made a mark internationally, actively engaging in strategic basins across the Americas with operations in the United States, Brazil, and Mexico.
In light of the exciting developments at Ecopetrol Permian LLC and their strategic partnership with OXY, the future looks promising not only for the companies involved but also for the energy landscape in the region. As plans unfold, stakeholders will closely monitor how these initiatives progress in the context of global energy markets and environmental considerations.
This announcement also conveys a forward-looking perspective, highlighting potential variances influenced by market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and competitive dynamics that may affect the realization of these ambitious targets moving forward. Both companies have acknowledged the inherent risks and uncertainties involved, committing to transparency and adaptability as they navigate the evolving energy landscape.