Venus field development proceeds despite Marula-1X setback

The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia Head Office

Windhoek, Namibia — The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia and its joint venture partners—TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and Impact Oil & Gas—are moving forward with the development of the Venus Field in Block 2913B (PEL 56), offshore Namibia. This decision comes despite the recent unsuccessful drilling of the Marula-1X exploration well.

The Marula-1X well, located approximately 47 kilometers south of the Venus-1X discovery, was drilled to a depth of 6,460 meters, targeting Albian-aged sandstones within the Marula fan complex. No hydrocarbons were encountered in the primary target, and no drill stem test was performed. A comprehensive analysis of the well results is now underway.

Acting Managing Director of Namcor, Victoria Sibeya said, “While the results of Marula-1X, an exploration well outside Venus’ main field, were not what we had hoped for, our focus remains firmly on the commercial potential of the Venus Field. The accelerated development of this project is a clear signal of our commitment to Namibia’s energy future”.

Acting Managing Director of Namcor, Victoria Sibeya

The Venus Field, discovered in 2022, is situated about 320 kilometers southwest of Lüderitz in water depths of around 3,000 meters. The joint venture plans to drill up to 40 subsea wells, with the Final Investment Decision (FID) expected by early 2026. First oil production could commence by 2029 or 2030.

To support the development, the partners have initiated an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process. Stakeholder engagement sessions were successfully conducted between April 7 and 30, 2025, in various locations, primarily in the Erongo and Kharas regions, reflecting the joint venture’s commitment to responsible and transparent development practices.