ExxonMobil and partners target 2027 for Ionian Sea gas drilling

A consortium comprising ExxonMobil, HELLENiQ ENERGY, and Energean is moving toward the first exploratory drilling in the Ionian Sea at the Block 2 maritime block. The project, known as ‘Asopos 1’, is targeted to begin in February 2027. The area is considered a significant exploration target, with potential natural gas resources estimated at up to 200 billion cubic meters.

A 2,000-page Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Energy, detailing the drilling process and supporting activities. The port of Igoumenitsa is designated as the primary supply base, where approximately 13–14 acres of space in the outer port will be used to manage two supply vessels. These ships will transport equipment and materials to the drilling site.

Personnel logistics will involve transporting 160 to 180 workers via Corfu Airport, followed by helicopter transfers to the drilling rig. Crew rotations are expected to occur in 28-day cycles. This operation is projected to generate approximately 10 million euros in economic activity for Greek businesses and local economies, particularly through services and accommodation required during crew changes.