British oil giant BP has launched a major plan to enhance northern Iraq energy development, focusing on the state-owned North Oil and North Gas companies. Sources from both companies confirmed to Shafaq News that BP has begun evaluating the infrastructure and production facilities.
The assessment marks the first step in a long-term strategy to increase production and improve extraction efficiency. Northern Iraq energy development will benefit from advanced technical studies, modern reservoir management, and rehabilitated facilities. Iraqi staff will also receive training to strengthen technical capabilities.
Last February, Iraq’s Ministry of Oil signed a $20–25 billion agreement with BP to develop Kirkuk’s four largest oil and gas fields: Baba, Awana, Bai Hassan, Jambur, and Khabbaz. The project aims to prevent gas flaring, introduce modern technologies, and enhance overall energy efficiency.
Currently, Kirkuk’s oil fields produce between 285,000 and 330,000 barrels per day. Most of this oil supplies the local market, while small volumes are exported to Jordan. The government expects BP’s involvement to gradually increase output by 50,000 to 100,000 barrels daily. This growth supports Iraq’s national goal to surpass 6 million barrels per day by 2029, up from roughly 4 million today.
In the gas sector, the North Gas Company produces around 410 million standard cubic feet daily. Last year, it raised supplies to power stations by 50 million cubic feet to reduce import reliance and strengthen energy security. BP now plans to enhance production further and upgrade infrastructure across gas facilities.
BP has already completed preliminary surveys of several oil fields. The first phase of work will finalize surveys for the North Oil Company, followed by development efforts for the North Gas Company. Oil expert Abbas Mahmoud estimates BP’s total investment could reach $25–30 billion. He highlighted that this scale of funding could trigger a transformative leap in northern Iraq’s oil and gas sector.
Analysts say this partnership is a crucial milestone for Iraq. It not only promises higher production but also introduces modern technologies and expertise to the country. Northern Iraq energy development stands at the center of this strategic effort, signaling a stronger, more efficient energy future.
