Eni has announced two new natural gas discoveries offshore Libya following a recent exploration campaign, reinforcing its position as a leading international operator in the country, according to a statement by the company.

The discoveries were made in two adjacent structures, Bahr Essalam South 2 (BESS 2) and Bahr Essalam South 3 (BESS 3). The sites are located about 85 kilometers (km) off the Libyan coast in waters approximately 650 feet deep, and 16 km south of the Bahr Essalam gas field.

According to the company, both wells encountered gas-bearing intervals within the Metlaoui Formation, the area’s main reservoir. Initial data indicate the presence of high-quality reservoirs, with productive capacity confirmed through testing of the first well.

Preliminary estimates suggest that the two structures together contain more than 1 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas in place. Their proximity to the Bahr Essalam field, the largest offshore field in Libya, which came on stream in 2005, will allow for rapid development through tie-back to existing infrastructure.

The produced gas is expected to supply the domestic Libyan market and support exports to Italy.

Eni, which has operated in Libya since 1959, remains the largest international energy company in the country. Its equity production reached about 162,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025, and it is currently advancing three development projects, two of which are scheduled to start operations in 2026.