Chevron Expresses Interest in Hydrocarbon Exploration Off Greece's Western Coast

According to the country's energy minister, Chevron, the US energy giant, has shown interest in participating in hydrocarbon exploration off Greece’s western coast.

Theodoros Skylakakis, who also serves as the environment minister, confirmed on Skai TV that Chevron's request had been accepted. The company is particularly interested in drilling for gas in the Ionian Sea, which extends from southwest of the Peloponnese to west of Crete. An international tender for this project is expected soon.

Skylakakis revealed that the tender and environmental study are set to be completed by the end of the week. Additionally, Greece has expanded the area available for hydrocarbon exploration by 25% and may consider further enlarging it.

Environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential impact, as the areas designated for exploration are located near a planned marine park. In response, the ministry announced it would assign more space to the park by halting exploration efforts in a small oilfield near Katakolo and certain gas exploration sites.