Barbados is stepping up its efforts to maximize oil and gas production, unveiling a bold energy strategy that blends innovation with sustainability. The government is introducing advanced recovery techniques and carbon capture initiatives to revitalize the nation’s energy sector while ensuring environmental responsibility.
Revamping Onshore Wells for Greater Efficiency
Minister of Energy and Business, Lisa Cummins, announced in Parliament on Wednesday that an extensive review of the country’s 257 onshore wells is in progress. With only 50 to 55 wells currently operational, officials are reassessing retired wells to unlock untapped potential and refine extraction strategies.
“The Barbados National Oil Company (BNOC) has been conducting a comprehensive assessment since last year,” Cummins explained. “Before we decommission any more wells, we must ensure that we are maximizing our existing resources.”
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A key part of this initiative is the use of seismic technology to analyze underground reserves, offering a clearer picture of Barbados’ remaining oil and gas deposits. This data will shape the country’s energy strategy through 2027, guiding extraction efforts for maximum efficiency.
Innovative Recovery Techniques to Boost Production
BNOC CEO James Brown shed light on the urgent need for advanced recovery methods, noting that domestic gas production currently meets only 30% of Barbados’ demand. Traditional extraction methods have yielded just 10% of the available oil and gas, prompting a shift to secondary and tertiary recovery techniques.
“We have invested significantly in our wells, and now, we’re taking things a step further,” Brown stated. “By injecting nitrogen or carbon dioxide into wells and reactivating older sites, we can extract more trapped oil and gas.”
Historically, many wells focused solely on oil extraction, leaving large amounts of natural gas untouched. The new approach aims to change that by optimizing both oil and gas recovery.
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Carbon Capture: A Step Towards Sustainability
In a move towards environmental stewardship, BNOC is also rolling out a carbon capture initiative using retired wells. This effort aligns with the government’s commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions (NZE).
Jamar White, Director of Natural Resources at the Ministry of Energy and Business, emphasized that repurposing old wells for carbon capture is a game-changer.
“We are leveraging existing infrastructure to reduce emissions while making full use of our resources,” White said. “This approach positions Barbados as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.”
Securing Barbados’ Energy Future
The government’s renewed focus on oil and gas recovery follows last year’s announcement to restart oil drilling programs. Officials stress that these initiatives are about more than just energy security—they represent a strategic shift towards cleaner, more responsible resource management.
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Minister Cummins reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to balancing economic growth with sustainability.
“We are ensuring that every barrel of oil and every cubic foot of gas is extracted efficiently and responsibly,” she stated. “At the same time, we are aligning with global energy trends to secure a sustainable future for Barbados.”
With new technology, forward-thinking strategies, and a commitment to both energy security and sustainability, Barbados is charting a bold course for the future of its energy sector.
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