May 26, 2026 [Reuters]- Italy’s Eni said ​on Monday it and partners Petroci and Vitol ‌have given approval for the final investment decision for the third phase of the Baleine project in Ivory Coast, marking ​a new stage in development of the ​country’s largest hydrocarbon discovery.

• Phase 3 will significantly ⁠expand output, with oil production set to ​rise to 150,000 barrels per day from 60,000 ​and gas output increasing to 200 million cubic feet per day from 80 million, the company said.
• The development ​includes the construction of a new floating ​production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit aimed at ensuring high operational ‌efficiency, ⁠safety standards and reduced environmental impact.
• Eni said all gas produced under the project will be directed to the domestic market, supporting Ivory Coast’s ​energy needs, ​boosting power ⁠generation and aiding industrial development.
• Eni has been present in the African country ​since 2015, where it made the ​Baleine ⁠and Calao discoveries.
• The third phase is expected to be online in 32 to 36 months at a ⁠total ​cost of $4 billion, Eni told ​Reuters.