Block 17 is located approximately 150 kilometers off the Angolan coast, in water depths between 600 and 1,400 meters. It is recognized as one of the first deepwater blocks licensed in Angola and is often referred to as the “golden block” due to its significant output.
The block is operated by TotalEnergies, with Equinor, ExxonMobil, Azule Energy (a joint venture between Eni and BP), and Sonangol serving as partners.
The field produces oil through several floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units, including Girassol, Dalia, Pazflor, and CLOV. These units have played a central role in Angola’s offshore oil production over the past two decades.
In a social media post, Richard Migeon, TotalEnergies’ Business Strategy Director, confirmed that the PSC extension includes a plan to prolong the life of FPSO Dalia until 2045. This will be supported by the drilling of new wells, expected to contribute an additional 300 million barrels to TotalEnergies’ output from the block.
Azule Energy commented: “This extension solidifies our strategic presence in the region and reflects our unwavering focus on operational excellence, sustainable development, and value creation.”
The Girassol field, the first in Block 17 to commence production, came on stream in December 2001. Two years ago, TechnipFMC was contracted to execute the Girassol life extension project (GIR LIFEX), aimed at maintaining long-term production levels from this field.
In a related development, Azule Energy also recently added FPSO Agogo to its operations in Angola. Operated by Yinson Production, FPSO Agogo will be deployed at Block 15/06, further expanding the company’s offshore portfolio in the country.
The extension of the PSC for Block 17 highlights the consortium’s commitment to sustaining oil output through infrastructure upgrades and continued exploration. With the combined expertise of international and local partners, the development is expected to enhance long-term resource recovery and support Angola’s offshore energy sector.
