Santos Limited has begun first oil production from Phase 1 of the Pikka development in Alaska’s North Slope, marking an initial step toward full commercial output.
The project, located in the Nanushuk formation, has started early production as part of commissioning work, with output expected to ramp up to around 20,000 barrels per day in the coming weeks.
The operator said production will remain intermittent as systems are gradually brought online, with stabilization expected after supporting facilities become fully operational.
Phase 1 of the project includes 28 drilled wells out of a planned 45, along with infrastructure such as a drilling platform, seawater treatment plant, pipelines, and a remote operations center.
Once fully ramped up, Pikka is expected to reach peak production of around 80,000 barrels per day in the third quarter of this year.
Repsol holds a 49% stake in the project, while Santos operates with a 51% interest.
The companies expect first sales revenue within two to three months after initial production begins.
