A Game-Changer for Romania’s Energy Future

U.S.-based energy services giant Expro has just landed two lucrative contracts worth over $10 million with OMV Petrom, a leading energy player in Southeastern Europe. These deals are set to power the Neptun Deep project, the largest natural gas development in the Romanian Black Sea.

The contracts will see Expro deploying its cutting-edge technologies, including its subsea landing string (SSLS), SeaCure cementing systems, tubular running services (TRS), and Coretrax Advance drilling tools. These innovations are critical to the project’s success, ensuring efficient and sustainable extraction of natural gas from one of Europe’s most promising energy reserves.

“This is a pivotal moment for Expro and the energy industry in Eastern Europe,” said Andrei Ion, Expro’s Senior Area Manager for Europe, Mediterranean, and Caspian. “Neptun Deep isn’t just a project; it’s a cornerstone for Romania’s energy independence and a testament to our commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions.”

Expro’s Growing Footprint in Eastern Europe

The Neptun Deep contracts are the latest milestone in Expro’s ambitious expansion across Romania. The company recently opened a new office in Bucharest, established a state-of-the-art operational base, and launched a recruitment drive to grow its local workforce. This strategic move underscores Expro’s dedication to supporting the region’s energy sector while fostering economic growth.

The announcement follows another major win for Expro: a contract to supply tubular running services for the Netherlands’ first offshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. Together, these achievements highlight Expro’s growing influence in Europe’s push for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions.

Neptun Deep: A Low-Carbon Energy Powerhouse

Located approximately 160 kilometers offshore in waters ranging from 100 to 1,000 meters deep, the Neptun Deep block spans an impressive 7,500 square kilometers. What sets this project apart is its remarkably low carbon footprint—just 2.2 kg CO2/boe, significantly below the industry average of 16.7 kg CO2/boe.

Developed jointly by OMV Petrom and Romgaz, with each holding a 50% stake, Neptun Deep is expected to produce its first gas by 2027. With an estimated total production of 100 billion cubic meters of natural gas, this project is poised to transform Romania’s energy landscape and bolster Europe’s energy security.

The project reached its final investment decision (FID) in June 2023, with development costs projected at up to €4 billion. This massive investment underscores the scale and importance of Neptun Deep, not just for Romania but for the entire European energy market.