On March 23, 2025, a significant milestone was marked in Romania's energy sector as OMV Petrom and Romgaz officially launched drilling operations for the first well in the Neptun Deep gas field, located 160 kilometers offshore in the Black Sea. This development heralds the beginning of a strategic project poised to enhance Romania's gas production and positioning in the European energy market.
The drilling operation commenced at precisely 1:00 PM, as confirmed by Romania's Energy Minister, Sebastian Burduja. He stated, "Here, in the depths of the sea, we will start extracting Romanian gas for Romania and the entire region by 2027, or even sooner." This project anticipates an annual production capacity of around 8 billion cubic meters of gas, contributing significantly to Romania's self-sufficiency in energy.
The Neptun Deep project is expected to yield an estimated total of 100 billion cubic meters of gas over its lifespan, with a projected economic benefit amounting to approximately 20 billion euros to the state budget. The investment for this ambitious undertaking is estimated to be around 4 billion euros.
According to Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom, "The initiation of drilling is an important milestone for the progress of the Neptun Deep project— a project of strategic significance for Romania. By developing this project, Romania can secure its natural gas needs from domestic sources and become a key player in the European market." Verchere emphasized the project's positive contribution to the Romanian economy while reaffirming their commitment to ensuring safe and efficient project implementation.
Romania's strategic goal is not solely about economic gain but also about enhancing energy independence in the face of geopolitical challenges. Burduja emphasized the liberating potential of the Neptun Deep gas, stating, "The gas from the Black Sea represents freedom. It breaks the chains that Russia has used to keep Europe dependent. It signifies a real and reliable alternative for us all, Europeans—without blackmail and without prices dictated by the whims of an authoritarian regime."
The first well will be drilled at Pelican Sud, in water depths of about 120 meters, with the gas reservoir lying approximately 2,000 meters below the seabed. The drilling process is expected to take about 2 to 3 months, utilizing advanced offshore drilling technology to minimize environmental impact.
As the drilling progresses, several other essential components of the Neptun Deep project are concurrently underway, including the construction of production platforms and supporting vessels, along with the installation of necessary infrastructure such as submarine production systems and gas measurement stations.
Sebastian Burduja praised the efforts of the teams involved in this project, encouraging them to continue their diligent work, especially as Romgaz plans to enter the supply market within the year, aiming to deliver this Romanian gas to households at competitive rates.
Burduja stated via social media, "We are writing history. Against the obstacles and threats from those who would do anything to prevent Romania from becoming an energy security provider for Europe. We promised that we wouldn’t stop, and we are progressing to the finish line for an independent and strong Romania." His remarks reflect a nationalistic fervor and a determination to boost Romania's energy autonomy.
This ambitious energy project, Neptun Deep, symbolizes more than just a gas field. It represents a strategic pivot for Romania as it steps onto the European stage as a significant gas supplier, enhancing not only its energy independence but also its economic stability. With the commencement of drilling, the country is poised for a future where its natural resources become a cornerstone of its energy policy and economic strategy.
The collaboration between OMV Petrom and Romgaz sets a strong foundation for Romania's energy future, potentially transforming the landscape of European energy supply while promising significant economic dividends for the Romanian people. The unfolding narrative surrounding the Neptun Deep project is an encouraging development for a nation eager to forge a new path in an ever-changing global energy landscape.
