Energy

Iraq seeks backup options for West Qurna 2

As a sanctions deadline looms, Basra Oil Company is poised to manage the 480,000 bpd field while Lukoil continues negotiating to sell its stake.

A ceremony at the West Qurna 2 oil field in Basra to mark the opening of two new well complexes on June 1, 2023. (JASSIM AL-JABIRI/Iraq Oil Report)

Dec 9, 2009

Comment & Analysis: The economics of Iraq oil investment

Why the world’s largest oil companies have reversed their earlier position that the oil ministry’s terms for major development deals were not profitable enough.

Dec 3, 2009

KRG names electricity minister

Posting was delayed as parties reshuffle after the July election and some key ministerial posts change hands.

Dec 1, 2009

Oil Ministry HQ likely to host Dec. bidding round

Companies prefer Green Zone hotel, but conflicting bookings are forcing the ministry to go back to its original plan to host the oil auction at home.

Dec 1, 2009

South oil exports return from weather delay

Winds complicate oil exports from south, where basic speedbumps can quickly turn into roadblocks for the fragile but crucial infrastructure.

Dec 1, 2009

Checklist: the $11B spent on reconstruction by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Gulf Region District highlights the projects from $11B in U.S. funding over nearly seven years in Iraq.

Dec 1, 2009

U.S. money, Iraqi reconstruction

Before he left Iraq, Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of USACE Lt. Gen. Van Antwerp talks about what went well, what could have been done differently and what engineering and reconstruction support will remain in Iraq as U.S. forces draw down to 50,000 end-August 2010.

Nov 27, 2009

Slow going on Zubair, W. Qurna and Nassiriya deals

Three contracts with foreign oil firms including Exxon Mobil and Shell are slowly making their way through the Iraqi contracting process, which requires political approval.

Nov 27, 2009

October oil exports down but revenue up

Increased oil price and southern export boost helps Iraq see more oil income last month than September, despite northern output drop.

Nov 23, 2009

Bringing transparency to Iraq’s crude world

Oil Ministry Inspector General talks about the smuggling evolution, and wants more civil society participation in Iraq’s efforts to be transparent.

Nov 23, 2009

Japanese consortium back in Baghdad for Nassiriya

Negotiations continue for Thi Qar oil field despite ongoing delays after Japanese companies chosen over Italian and Spanish firms.