bp boosts U.S. Gulf output with Atlantis expansion startup

(WO) — bp has started production from its Atlantis expansion project in the U.S. Gulf of America/Mexico, adding approximately 10,000 boed of gross peak annualized production while extending the life of one of the company's flagship deepwater developments.

Located about 150 miles south of New Orleans, the Atlantis field has been producing for nearly two decades. The expansion includes two new subsea water injection wells, new subsea trees and topside water injection pumps designed to maintain reservoir pressure, improve recovery and unlock additional oil production. The project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

"Atlantis has been one of the anchors of our Gulf business for nearly two decades, and this expansion proves there is still more value to be generated," said Andy Krieger, bp's senior vice president for the Gulf of America and Canada. "We're extending the life of a great asset while supporting jobs and investment in the region — all while making the most of infrastructure that's already in place."

The project is expected to contribute approximately 5,000 boed net to bp and provides additional water injection capacity for future development at the field.

The startup marks another milestone in bp's strategy to grow production from its deepwater Gulf portfolio. The company recently sanctioned the Kaskida and Tiber developments, which together are expected to add approximately 160,000 bpd of new oil production capacity in the U.S. offshore region by the end of the decade.

bp operates five production hubs in the U.S. Gulf—Argos, Atlantis, Mad Dog, Na Kika and Thunder Horse. Atlantis, discovered in 1998, operates in about 7,074 ft of water. bp holds a 56% working interest in the field, while partner Woodside Energy owns the remaining 44%.