Iraq inks major gas development deal with Schlumberger for Akkas field
Agreement aims to boost production at one of Middle East’s largest gas fields, targets 400 mcf/d output
BAGHDAD, Iraq (MNTV) — Iraq has signed a significant agreement with U.S. energy firm Schlumberger to accelerate development of the Akkas gas field in Al-Anbar province, a key part of Baghdad’s strategy to ramp up domestic gas production and reduce reliance on imports.
Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani said the agreement is central to Iraq’s national energy goals, with Schlumberger tasked to drill new wells and enhance field infrastructure.
The initial target is to produce 100 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd), with long-term plans to quadruple that output to 400 mmscfd.
The new deal replaces a previous contract with a Ukrainian company, signaling Iraq’s renewed focus on leveraging international expertise to meet pressing energy needs.
The contract also includes construction of vital surface facilities and pipelines to transport gas from the Akkas field to central processing units and supply the Al-Anbar Power Station currently under development.
Minister Abdul Ghani emphasized the importance of adhering to implementation timelines, citing the country’s urgent demand for gas to fuel power generation and industrial development.
“We expect Schlumberger to meet all deadlines and fully deliver on this strategic commitment,” he said during the signing ceremony.
Representing Schlumberger, Gokhan Yarim, President of Integrated Projects, expressed the company’s commitment to the partnership and assured full compliance with project timelines.
“This agreement marks a long-term collaboration that aligns with Iraq’s energy ambitions. We are proud to support Iraq with our global capabilities,” Yarim stated.
Deputy minister for Oil Extraction Affairs, Bassem Mohammed Khudair, described the agreement as a “strategic leap” for Iraq’s energy sector.
He noted that the integration of global expertise with local operational capacity is critical to advancing projects like Akkas and the Mansuriya field—both key components of Iraq’s plan to cut gas flaring and increase domestic output.
The Akkas field is one of the largest untapped gas reserves in the Middle East. Its development is seen as a linchpin in efforts to reduce dependency on imported energy, particularly during peak summer demand.
Iraq is also aiming to expand electricity generation capacity and attract further investment into its energy sector through partnerships with leading international companies.
This move comes amid broader efforts by Baghdad to modernize its energy infrastructure and achieve greater self-sufficiency, while also aligning with global climate goals by reducing gas flaring and emissions.
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