French energy giant TotalEnergies has announced plans to begin offshore drilling in South Africa in 2025, pending regulatory approval.
The move represents a potential turning point in South Africa’s efforts to grow its oil and gas exploration sector.
Mike Sangster, TotalEnergies’ Senior Vice President for Africa, disclosed the company’s intentions at an industry conference on Tuesday.
He confirmed that TotalEnergies currently holds exploration rights over four offshore blocks in South African waters.
If the drilling proves successful, it could significantly boost South Africa’s domestic energy supply, reduce reliance on fuel imports, and attract further foreign investment into the country’s energy sector.
TotalEnergies has already made significant offshore discoveries in South Africa, including the Brulpadda and Luiperd gas fields located in the Outeniqua Basin, southwest of Mossel Bay. These finds were once seen as pivotal to South Africa’s energy future.
However, in July, the company announced its withdrawal from Block 11B/12B off the country’s southern coast, citing concerns over commercial viability.
The block hosts South Africa’s largest offshore gas discoveries to date, and the decision dealt a blow to the country’s ambitions for energy self-sufficiency.
TotalEnergies has operated in South Africa since 1954, with interests spanning the entire oil and gas value chain.
Despite its longstanding presence, the company—along with other energy investors—continues to face mounting challenges.
These include ongoing legal battles with environmental groups, extended regulatory delays, and technical difficulties stemming from rough seas and strong ocean currents in the offshore exploration zones.
Combined, these factors have dampened investor confidence and slowed momentum in developing South Africa’s offshore resources.
