Unique environment

Offshore operations are conducted in extreme continental weather conditions. Winters are harsh and temperatures can drop to -40ºC (-40ºF), while summer temperatures can reach +40ºC (+104ºF).

Low saline content in the water in the northern Caspian means that ice build-up is quick and the sea is frozen in winter. The sea waters are frozen for 4-5 months, from November to March. For the rest of the year, the northern Caspian is subject to rapid sea level fluctuations, up to one meter, due to storm surges and winds. The combination of ice, shallow waters and sea level fluctuations represents a significant logistical challenge.

Technological complexity

The Kashagan project is a unique combination of technical complexity and environmental challenges. The size and the variety of operations make it one of the greatest challenges of the petroleum industry worldwide.

All Agip KCO offshore facilities need to be carefully protected from the harsh winter conditions, especially pack-ice movements.

• Deep reservoir - 4,500 m
• High reservoir pressure - 800 bar
• High H2S (Hydrogen Sulphide) content - 16-20%
• Management of by-products, such as sulphur
• Use of sour gas re-injection into the reservoir