Greece Set to Drill First Offshore Gas Well Since 1970

Greece is set to drill its first offshore exploratory gas well in decades, with an ExxonMobil-led consortium expected to start operations in spring 2027. The drilling will take place in the Ionian Sea, a region that has been largely inactive in terms of energy exploration.

The Asopos-1 well, led by ExxonMobil and involving Energean and HelleniQ Energy, is currently preparing for its first operation since 1970. The environmental study is complete, and Igoumenitsa will serve as the logistics port for the project.

Athens has reopened offshore work after years of inactivity, with tenders issued for seismic surveys in various locations, including the Ionian Sea and south of Crete. Chevron is also due to conduct seismic surveys in these areas before the end of 2026.