Shell has accelerated the process of completing an offshore survey of Venezuela’s Dragon gas field ahead of the US-set deadline of the end of May to cease all energy-related activities in the country. According to sources close to the matter, the survey aims to collect critical data for future drilling and pipeline development—especially should US restrictions be eased.
The Colombian-flagged vessel Dona Jose II, chartered by Shell, entered Venezuelan waters this month and is positioned to conduct the survey in partnership with Trinidad and Tobago’s National Gas Company (NGC).
This information was also confirmed by ship tracking data.This initiative comes immediately after Washington’s decision in 2023 to revoke the license that allowed Shell and NGC to plan the Dragon gas project. Both companies are required to cease their operations in Venezuela by May 27.
Trinidad, one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG), ammonia, and methanol, relies on offshore gas from Venezuela to balance its dwindling domestic reserves.
The Dragon field is seen as a strategic solution that could provide Trinidad with the gas it needs and could also allow Venezuela to utilize its offshore reserves. Shell, NGC, and Venezuela’s state energy company PDVSA have not yet commented on the ongoing developments.
