Karachaganak Petroleum Operating (KPO) has announced that the KEP-1B Project has safely achieved First Gas Reinjection. This key milestone was safely completed ahead of schedule, with over 7 million man-hours worked, including 5.5 million LTI-free man-hours recorded since the last LTI. This milestone supports sustained production from one of the country’s largest oil and gas fields.
Achievement of this milestone demonstrates KPO’s ongoing commitment to safe, responsible and efficient operation at the Karachaganak field. The new compressor is expected to significantly increase the KPO overall gas treatment capacity together with the gas re-injection volumes, maintaining reservoir pressure and extending the field’s liquid production plateau.
The project progressed successfully despite external challenges, including geopolitical tensions, logistical restrictions, and supply chain disruptions, demonstrating KPO’s strong project execution capabilities and resilience in a complex operating environment.
KPO remains committed to maximizing local content and supporting the development of local communities and contributing to sustainable economic growth. To date, the KEP-1B Project has achieved 39% local content, progressing toward the overall project target of 45%. During the construction phase, the project created employment opportunities for more than 2,000 local personnel and is expected to continue supporting jobs during the operation phase.
This milestone supports the RoK Government’s objectives for sustainable energy sector development and reinforces Karachaganak’s position as a strategic asset in the country’s energy system. Since the inception of the Project, Karachaganak has made substantial contributions to the national budget through taxes and other mandatory payments. The successful delivery of the KEP-1B Project marks an important step in the continued development of the Karachaganak field, ensuring long-term production stability, economic growth and regional development.
'Achieving the Gas Injection milestone ahead of schedule and with an excellent safety record reflects the dedication, professionalism and strong collaboration of all teams involved' noted Marco Marsili, KPO General Director. 'This Project plays a key role in sustaining production and delivering long-term value to all stakeholders'.
Background
Karachaganak Petroleum Operating B.V. (KPO) is a joint venture between Eni SpA (29.25%), Shell plc, (29.25%), Chevron (18%), Lukoil (13.5%) and KazMunayGas (10%).
KPO oversees the expansion and development of the Karachaganak field – one of the world’s largest gas and condensate fields.
Source: Karachaganak
