The seismic survey aims to map subsurface geological structures and identify potential drilling targets, during future phases of exploration.
Norwegian marine geoscience firm Shearwater GeoServices has signed a seismic exploration contract with French oil giant TotalEnergies for offshore Block STP-02 in São Tomé and Príncipe, marking a significant step in the island nation’s offshore energy ambitions.
The 100-day 3D marine seismic survey is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2025, between July and September, carried out by SW Empress, one of the world’s most advanced 3D seismic vessels.
“This award marks the initiation of our extended collaboration with TotalEnergies,” said Shearwater CEO GeoServices Irene Waage Basili, in a press statement.
“It will provide Shearwater with long-term visibility on future demand, while also supporting TotalEnergies’ global exploration strategy with industry-leading geophysical technology and assets,” added the CEO.
Block STP-02 lies approximately 60 kilometers off the coast of Príncipe, adjacent to Block STP-01, and spans 4,969 square kilometers.
In June 2024, TotalEnergies acquired a 60% operating stake in Block STP-02 from São Tomé and Príncipe’s National Petroleum Agency (ANP-STP). Angola’s Sonangol holds a 30% stake, while ANP-STP retains 10%.
The seismic survey aims to map subsurface geological structures and identify potential drilling targets, during future phases of exploration.
However, an environmental and social impact assessment by ANP-STP has raised concerns about potential harm to the region’s marine biodiversity.
The report cites possible risks such as dolphin strandings and accidental fuel spills.
Notably, it highlights potential threats to deep-sea coral species, including Lophelia pertusa, Desmophyllum cristagalli, and Solensmilia variabilis, which inhabit between 100 meters and over 3,000-meter depths in the survey area.
“There is a risk of accidental spills of fuel during operations refueling, which may result in violation of Art. 57 of Laws No. 10/1999. Furthermore, the disturbance of ecosystems due to underwater noise is a concern, which may affect marine biodiversity,” reads the study report in part.
São Tomé and Príncipe, with a coastline of just 209 kilometers, is one of Africa’s smallest nations but has increasingly drawn attention from global energy players due to its offshore hydrocarbon prospects.