Libya’s National Oil Corp (NOC) announced on Monday that BP and Shell have agreed to conduct studies for hydrocarbon exploration and development at three key Libyan oilfields.
Libya, Africa’s second-largest oil producer and an OPEC member, has faced frequent oil disruptions caused by rival armed factions disputing revenue distribution. These conflicts often led to temporary shutdowns of vital oilfields.
Since the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi, Libya has been mired in chaos, deterring foreign investment in its energy sector. Many international oil companies paused operations for nearly a decade.
Last year, major players including Eni, OMV, BP, and Repsol cautiously resumed exploration efforts, signaling a slow but hopeful return to Libya’s oil industry.
NOC revealed BP plans to reopen its Tripoli office in late 2025. The company signed a memorandum of understanding to study hydrocarbon potential at the Messla and Sarir oilfields, including surrounding exploration areas.
Meanwhile, Shell has committed to evaluating prospects and conducting a full technical and economic feasibility study for the Atshan oilfield and other NOC-owned sites.
These initiatives aim to revitalize Libya’s oil output, which currently stands at 1.385 million barrels per day, according to NOC data.
Amid fragile stability, the partnership between global oil giants and Libya’s NOC marks a cautious step toward restoring the nation’s pivotal role in the global energy landscape.
