[Project] Turkiye - Energy Exploration Initiative

[Jay]

TYPE	Infrastructure
BUILDER	Turkiye
CLIENT	Turkiye
SITE LOCATION	Turkiye
SECTOR	Energy
PROJECT NAME	Energy Exploration Initiative
PROJECT COST	350,000,000.00
COMPLETION DATE	28/08/2025
PROJECT INFORMATION	Exploration for hydrocarbon exploration within Türkiye's exclusive economic zones in the Black Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, and Coasts of Northern Cyprus. The project will utilize four Oruc Reis drilling ships to conduct intensive surveys and exploratory drilling over a four-month period. The objective is to quickly assess the hydrocarbon potential, enhancing Türkiye's energy security and reducing import dependence. Two vessels will cover the Black Sea, one will cover the Eastern Mediterranean, and the last one will cover the southeastern coastline of Türkiye and northern Cyprus Scope The exploration will cover three areas within Türkiye's Exclusive Economic Zone: the Black Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, and Aegean Sea, employing state-of-the-art technology and the Oruc Reis drilling ships to conduct thorough and rapid surveys. Key Benefits Assessment of domestic hydrocarbon resources Enhanced national energy security Immediate economic growth opportunities through job creation and regional development Strengthened technological and operational capabilities Global Energy Trends Hydrocarbons, including oil, natural gas, and coal, remain pivotal in the global energy landscape. Their high energy density and reliability make them indispensable despite the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources. Several key trends are shaping the future of hydrocarbons in the global energy market: Oil continues to dominate the transportation sector, particularly in regions where electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is underdeveloped. The aviation industry, shipping, and heavy-duty vehicles rely heavily on oil-based fuels. The demand for petrochemical products, which are derived from oil, is increasing. These products are essential for the manufacture of plastics, fertilizers, and numerous industrial chemicals. In contrast to oil, natural gas is favored for electricity generation due to its lower carbon emissions compared to coal and its ability to complement intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar. In addition it is widely used in industries for heating, as a feedstock in chemical production, and for various manufacturing processes. Advances in LNG technology are enhancing the transportation and storage of natural gas, making it more accessible and economically viable globally. The hydrocarbon market is characterized by price volatility, influenced by factors such as geopolitical events, technological advancements, and shifts in demand. This instability has expedited the number ofcountries are striving for energy independence, which impacts global trade flows and investment in domestic hydrocarbon resources. Türkiye in focus Türkiye's dependence on imported energy subjects it to the fluctuations of global energy markets. Sharp increases in prices can lead to higher costs for consumers and businesses, impacting overall economic stability. Relying on external sources for energy makes Türkiye vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and conflicts that can disrupt supply chains. This dependence can lead to energy shortages and exacerbate national security concerns. The Turkish National Security Council found that countries that supply energy to Türkiye continue to have the power to wield undue influence, leveraging their energy exports to exert political pressure. This dependence can compromise Türkiye's autonomy in foreign policy decisions. Particularly as it pertains to European and Middle Eastern affairs The discovery and production of hydrocarbons within Türkiye will provide a significant source of revenue for the government, which can be reinvested in infrastructure, education, and other critical areas. The exploitation of domestic energy resources can stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investments, and fostering the development of related industries. Lastly, by developing domestic hydrocarbon resources, Türkiye can reduce its reliance on imported energy, thereby enhancing its energy security and sovereignty. In addition, The import of energy constitutes a considerable portion of Türkiye's trade deficit. Reducing energy imports would help improve the balance of trade and strengthen the national economy. High import bills can deplete foreign exchange reserves, making it challenging to manage currency stability and economic policy effectively. Therefore there are serious benefits to the exploration and potential rewards of energy discoveries. Geological and Geophysical Survey The geological formations in the Black Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, and Northern Cyprus are highly conducive to hydrocarbon deposits. Extensive studies suggest significant untapped potential in these regions. Past geological and geophysical surveys have provided valuable data on the subsurface structures. These studies form the foundation for the proposed exploration activities. The project will implement stringent measures to minimize the ecological impact of the drilling and exploration of the EEZ. The exploration activities will adhere to national and international environmental regulations. Measures will be implemented to minimize ecological disruption, including the use of environmentally friendly drilling practices and continuous environmental monitoring based on global best practices. In addition, the project will draw from experienced personnel to mitigate technical challenges and offer significant efficiency. The research vessels will conduct advanced seismic surveys, including 3D seismic imaging, to map subsurface structures. The Oruc Reis drilling ships will conduct exploratory drilling to confirm the presence of hydrocarbons. The Oruc Reis will: Utilize 3D seismic imaging for detailed subsurface mapping. Conduct exploratory drilling with the Oruc Reis ships to verify hydrocarbon presence. Employ advanced software and techniques for comprehensive data analysis. Operational Phases Phase I: Completion of seismic surveys January: Initial seismic surveys and data acquisition. Phase II: Identification of drilling sites February: Detailed geological analysis and identification of drilling sites. Phase III: Successful exploratory drilling March: Commencement of exploratory drilling with Oruc Reis ships. Evaluation and preliminary development planning April: Data evaluation and preliminary development planning. Appendices Technical Supporting Document: Oruc Reis Drilling Ships Name: MTA Oruç Reis Namesake: Oruç Reis (c. 1474–1518), Ottoman beylerbey of the West Mediterranean Owner: General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) Operator: Geophysical Directorate Ordered: April 24, 2012 Builder: Istanbul Maritime Shipyard Launched: March 28, 2015 Identification: IMO number: 9675470 - 9675471 - 9675472 - 9675473 MMSI number: 271044654 - 271044655 - 271044656 - 271044656 Callsign: TCA4398 - TCA4399 - TCA4400 - TCA4441 General Characteristics Class and Type: Geophysical exploration ship Tonnage: 4,575 GT Displacement: 4,867 t Length: 87 m (285 ft 5 in) Beam: 23 m (75 ft 6 in) Draft: 6 m (19 ft 8 in) Depth: 8 m (26 ft 3 in) Installed Power: 4 x 2,520 kW (3,380 hp) 12V diesel generators Speed: Max. 17 knots (31 km/h; 20 mph) Crew: 27 Vessel Overview RV MTA Oruç Reis is a Turkish research vessel owned by the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) in Ankara. The vessel is operated by MTA's Geophysical Directorate for subsea geophysical exploration in shallow waters. Detailed Characteristics Construction and Launch The construction of MTA Oruç Reis was contracted by MTA to Istanbul Maritime Shipyard in Tuzla, Istanbul, on April 24, 2012. The vessel was launched on March 28, 2015, and named after Oruç Reis (c. 1474–1518), the Ottoman Beylerbeyi of the West Mediterranean. Dimensions Length: 87 m (285 ft 5 in) Beam: 23 m (75 ft 6 in) Depth: 8 m (26 ft 3 in) Draft: 6 m (19 ft 8 in) Tonnage Gross Tonnage: 4,575 GT Displacement Tonnage: 4,867 t Propulsion and Speed The vessel is equipped with four 2,520 kW (3,380 hp) 12V diesel generators manufactured by Anglo Belgian Corporation (ABC). This setup allows the vessel to reach a maximum speed of 17 knots (31 km/h; 20 mph). Crew and Scientific Staff Crew: 27 Scientific Staff: 28 Capabilities Geophysical Survey: Capable of performing comprehensive geophysical surveys and 3D sampling at the seabed to depths of up to 20,000 m (66,000 ft). ROV: Features a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) capable of performing observations and sampling at depths of up to 1,500 m (4,900 ft). Oceanographic Equipment: Equipped with devices to survey ocean currents and analyze physical, chemical, and biological properties, including a CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth) device. Helipad: The vessel has a 12-ton capacity helipad suitable for helicopter landings and take-offs, both day and night. Commissioning Following the completion of tests and acceptance activities, MTA Oruç Reis was commissioned to explore petroleum in the Mediterranean Sea. Advanced Features MTA Oruç Reis is equipped with advanced technology for detailed geophysical surveys and deep-sea exploration. The ship's capabilities ensure that it can effectively support hydrocarbon exploration projects, providing accurate and comprehensive data on subsurface structures."