Shell Discovers Gas at Sirius Well Offshore Egypt, Eyes 2029 Production
According to Drilling Contractor, Shell drilled the Sirius-1X exploratory gas well in the Northeast Amreya area of the Mediterranean Sea offshore Egypt, reaching a target depth of 2,115 meters with encouraging initial gas indications. The discovery could move toward an early development decision in 2027, with production planned for 2029 as part of the Mina West development. Shell used the Stena IceMAX drillship for the operation, which marks the company’s first exploration well of 2026 in its Mediterranean expansion program.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- Marine services companies could see opportunities as Shell plans to tie Sirius into the Mina West development by 2029, requiring subsea installation, pipeline laying, and vessel support services
- Drilling contractors may benefit from Shell’s expanded Mediterranean program, with the Mina West-2 well still drilling and expected to start production this year
- Completion and production services providers should watch for early development tenders in 2027, as Shell moves quickly from discovery to production in this proven basin
