TotalEnergies is pursuing environmental clearance to drill up to seven exploration wells in the southern portion of its Deep Water Orange Basin (DWOB) block, located off South Africa’s west coast.
The DWOB block lies approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) offshore between Port Nolloth and Saldanha Bay in deep waters.
TotalEnergies EP South Africa (TEEPSA), the operator, previously received authorization in 2023 to explore the northern section of the block.
The company now seeks to extend its activities to a new area within the block’s southern region, which spans nearly 15,000 km².
South Africa’s west coast has garnered significant interest from oil majors, including Shell, due to its proximity to Namibia’s prolific Orange Basin.
This region has yielded substantial discoveries, fueling optimism for potential finds further south where the basin extends.
As part of the regulatory process, TotalEnergies has engaged SLR Environmental Consulting to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
SLR, an independent consultancy, will evaluate the potential environmental effects of the proposed drilling activities.
However, offshore exploration in South Africa has faced staunch opposition from environmental activists. Concerns center on the impact of fossil fuel exploration on marine ecosystems and fishing communities’ livelihoods. Activists have launched several legal challenges to halt such activities.
Despite relinquishing other offshore blocks in South Africa earlier this year, TotalEnergies remains committed to advancing its operations in the Orange Basin.
The company’s efforts underscore the delicate balance between pursuing energy development and addressing environmental concerns in the region.
