Shell is looking to expand its operations in the Western Desert through its partnership with Badr El Din Petroleum (BAPETCO) in order to maximize its hydrocarbon potential, Shell Egypt’s Chairperson and Managing Director, Gasser Hanter, told Daily News Egypt.

The company currently produces approximately 20% of Egypt’s gas production and 10% of Egypt’s oil production, Hanter noted, adding that it is one of the two largest operators in Egypt’s Western Desert, producing more 130 kilo barrels of oil equivalent per day (kboe/d).

The company also partners with Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) and Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) in a joint liquefied natural gas (LNG) venture called Egyptian LNG (ELNG). Earlier this year, ELNG paid off its loans for its investments in the Egyptian LNG Project. ELNG has the capacity to produce approximately 7.2 metric tons per annum (MTPA) and 120 cargoes per year, according to Hanter.

BAPETCO is a joint venture between Shell and Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC).

“Shell is playing its part and is positioning itself as the preferred future partner of choice to Egypt. Our company has invested heavily in Egypt’s energy infrastructure through the acquisition of the BG Group last year, including its assets in Egypt. This deal builds on Shell’s 100+ years in Egypt,” Hanter said.