CNOOC Limited, a subsidiary of China National Offshore Oil Corporation, has commenced production at the Kenli 10-2 Oilfields Development Project (Phase I) in the southern Bohai Sea. This project, fully owned and operated by CNOOC Limited, is recognized as the largest shallow lithological oilfield in China’s offshore regions, with proven reserves exceeding 100 million tons of heavy crude.

Kenli 10-2 oilfields development project Phase I

Located in waters with an average depth of 20 meters, the Kenli 10-2 Oilfield is being developed in two phases. The first phase includes a new central platform and two wellhead platforms, utilizing nearby existing infrastructure for efficient development. The project integrates conventional cold production and thermal recovery systems, supported by over 240 sets of advanced equipment, making it one of the most sophisticated production platforms in the Bohai region.

Yan Hongtao, President of CNOOC Limited, stated: “The successful commencement of production of this project marks a new stage in the development of complicated heavy oil reservoirs offshore China. It will strongly support the Company’s Bohai Oilfield to achieve the annual gross production target of 40 million tons, contributing to the Company’s high-quality development through high-level operations.”

The project plans to commission 79 development wells, comprising 33 cold recovery wells, 24 thermal recovery wells, 21 water injection wells, and one water source well. It is expected to reach a peak production of approximately 19,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2026. This initiative follows CNOOC’s recent exploration success in the South China Sea, where the WZ10-5S-2d well encountered a significant oil and gas pay zone.

The Kenli 10-2 project employs an innovative approach combining conventional water injection, steam huff and puff, and steam flooding techniques to optimize heavy oil extraction. This strategy enhances the efficient use of reserves, supporting sustainable energy production without impacting import or export dynamics. The project’s advanced platform design underscores CNOOC’s commitment to technological innovation and operational excellence in offshore oilfield development.

This milestone strengthens CNOOC Limited’s position in the Bohai region, contributing to energy supply stability and supporting regional economic growth. The company continues to prioritize efficient resource utilization and high-quality operations to meet its production targets while advancing sustainable development in China’s offshore energy sector.