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Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-27 14:15 UTC → 2026-09-29 06:04 UTC · added removed

Hydrocarbon exploration activities are expanding in Greek maritime territories through new seismic campaigns. A consortium involving Chevron and Helleniq Energy is advancing plans for four maritime blocks, including the Southern Peloponnese and areas in Southern Crete. Additionally, the Hellenic Seismological Data and Exploration Company (EDEYEP) is working to acquire seismic data across Western Greece to attract further investment. Following discussions in the United States, Greek Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou confirmed that Chevron is scheduled to begin seismic surveys in the Ionian Sea, south of the Peloponnese, and near Crete by the end of 2026. The Minister emphasized Greece’s role in the European energy architecture, noting the importance of interconnectors and the involvement of international groups like ExxonMobil in developing the hydrocarbon market under strict environmental standards. He stressed that energy should not be used as a tool for “geopolitical blackmail” by nations such as Russia or Iran. In September 2026, ExxonMobil confirmed that the first offshore hydrocarbon exploration drilling in the Ionian Sea is scheduled to begin in the early months of 2027. This project, located in Block A2, marks the first such activity in Greek waters in nearly half a century. The consortium’s ownership structure consists of ExxonMobil (60%), Energean (30%), and HelleniQ Energy (10%). Following a meeting between Minister Papastavrou and ExxonMobil Vice President John Ardill, officials stated the project is proceeding according to plan. As of late September 2026, Energean has submitted an application to Greek authorities for the approval of two specialized support vessels, the ‘SWIFT TIDE’ and the ‘HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN’, to assist in exploratory drilling near Corfu in Block 2. These vessels are intended to transport personnel and equipment between By late September 2026, Minister Papastavrou provided updated details on the onshore base and Ionian Sea venture, noting the mobile offshore drilling unit. consortium estimates a 15-16% probability of success with potential natural gas reserves of approximately 270 billion cubic meters.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-29 06:04 UTC Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters
  2. 2026-09-27 14:15 UTC Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters
  3. 2026-09-27 05:47 UTC Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters
  4. 2026-09-25 09:21 UTC Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters
  5. 2026-09-23 08:23 UTC Hydrocarbon exploration in Greek waters

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