Apache Announces New Natural Gas Discovery in Egypt’s Western Desert

US energy company Apache Corporation has announced a new natural gas discovery in Egypt’s Western Desert, reinforcing efforts to increase domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.

The discovery was made in collaboration with the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) following the drilling of the SKAL-1X exploratory well in the South Kalabsha area.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, the find forms part of broader efforts to attract investment into the energy sector and strengthen the country’s natural gas output.

Initial test results indicate that the well can produce around 26 million cubic feet of natural gas per day, alongside approximately 2,700 barrels of condensate.

Officials say the discovery highlights the effectiveness of recent incentives introduced by the ministry, which have encouraged Apache to expand exploration activities and increase investments, particularly in areas close to its existing operations.

The location of the discovery is expected to improve its commercial viability, as it lies near established infrastructure and production facilities. This proximity is likely to reduce development costs and accelerate the timeline for bringing the well into production.

Authorities also note that such discoveries are critical in offsetting the natural decline from mature fields while limiting capital expenditure. Apache has operated in Egypt since the mid-1990s and remains one of the leading producers in the Western Desert through its joint venture operations with EGPC and Khalda Petroleum.