Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) has begun oil production at its Atrush Block in Iraq’s Kurdish region.
The first oil flowed through the Atrush central processing facility today.
TAQA chairman Saeed Al Hajeri said: “Starting operations at Atrush is an important milestone for TAQA, its partners and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.”
He added that they “look forward to operating the asset with a commitment to the highest standards of health, safety and environmental protection.”
Acting Chief Operating Officer Saeed Al Dhaheri said: “This achievement recognizes TAQA’s experience and capabilities in developing and operating complex oil and gas assets utilizing our global expertise.”
The facility has the capacity to handle up to 30,000 barrels per day, a figure it is expected to reach this year.
85km northwest of Erbil, the field was discovered in 2011 with development beginning in 2013 and is one of the largest in the Kurdistan region.
TAQA is the operator of the field which is being developed in partnership with the Kurdistan Regional Government, ShaMaran and Marathon Oil.
TAQA’s share in the Production Sharing Contract is 39.9%, with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s share at 25%, ShaMaran’s at 20.1% and Marathon Oil’s at 15%.