Chevron Begins Production At Anchor With Advance Deepwater Tech

Chevron has officially commenced production at the Anchor project, marking a significant advancement in deepwater technology in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

Chevron's Anchor project in the deepwater U.S. Gulf of Mexico begins oil and natural gas production, showcasing industry-first high-pressure technology that can safely operate at depths of up to 34,000 feet below sea level. The all-electric floating production unit (FPU) is designed to minimize carbon emissions while contributing to the energy needs of Gulf Coast communities.

This milestone introduces industry-first high-pressure technology capable of safely operating at up to 20,000 psi, with reservoir depths extending to 34,000 feet below sea level.

The Anchor project, situated in the Green Canyon area approximately 140 miles off the coast of Louisiana, is a breakthrough for the energy sector.

The development features a semi-submersible floating production unit (FPU) with a design capacity of 75,000 gross barrels of oil per day and 28 million gross cubic feet of natural gas per day.

The project includes seven subsea wells tied to the Anchor FPU, with the potential to recover up to 440 million barrels of oil equivalent.

"The Anchor project represents a breakthrough for the energy industry," said Nigel Hearne, executive vice president of Chevron Oil, Products & Gas.

"Application of this industry-first deepwater technology allows us to unlock previously difficult-to-access resources and will enable similar deepwater high-pressure developments for the industry."

This project is not only an engineering feat but also an economic catalyst for the Gulf Coast region.

The all-electric FPU is designed to reduce carbon emissions, featuring electric motors, electronic controls, waste heat, and vapor recovery units. It also utilizes existing pipeline infrastructure to transport oil and natural gas directly to the U.S. Gulf Coast market.

Chevron, the operator of the project, holds a 62.86% working interest, with TotalEnergies E&P USA, Inc. holding the remaining 37.14%.

The Anchor FPU is Chevron’s sixth operated facility in the Gulf of Mexico, contributing to its goal of producing 300,000 net barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2026. This project underscores Chevron’s commitment to delivering affordable, reliable, and lower carbon intensity energy to meet global demand.