Chevron has started oil and natural gas production from the Anchor project in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico, the company said on Aug. 12.

Anchor production marks the successful delivery of high-pressure technology rated to safely operate at up to 20,000 psi, with reservoir depths reaching 34,000 ft below sea level, Chevon said in a press release. The $5.7 billion project reached final investment decision in 2019.

The Anchor semisubmersible floating production unit (FPU) has a gross design capacity of 75,000 bbl/d of oil and 28 MMcf/d of natural gas.

The Anchor development will consist of seven subsea wells tied into the Anchor FPU, located in the Green Canyon area, approximately 140 miles (225 km) off the coast of Louisiana, in water depths of approximately 5,000 ft (1,524 m).

Total recoverable resources from the Anchor Field are estimated to be up to 440 MMboe.

"The Anchor project represents a breakthrough for the energy industry," said Nigel Hearne, executive vice president, 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."

Bruce Niemeyer, president, Chevron Americas Exploration & Production, said Chevron has demonstrated its ability to safely deliver projects within budget in the GoM.

"The Anchor project provides affordable, reliable, lower carbon intensity oil and natural gas to help meet energy demand, while boosting economic activity for Gulf Coast communities," he said.

The Anchor FPU is Chevron's sixth operated facility currently producing in the GoM. Chevron's operated and non-operated facilities in the Gulf are expected to produce a combined 300,000 net boe/d by 2026.

To reduce carbon emissions, the Anchor FPU was designed as an all-electric facility with electric motors and electronic controls. Additionally, the FPU utilizes waste heat and vapor recovery units as well as existing pipeline infrastructure to transport oil and natural gas directly to U.S. Gulf Coast markets.

Chevron, through its subsidiary Chevron U.S.A. Inc., is operator and holds a 62.86% working interest in the Anchor project. Co-owner TotalEnergies E&P USA Inc. holds a 37.14% working interest.


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