Morocco: The Tarfaya Deposit Could Contain Up to 22 Billion Barrels of Oil
New estimates are reigniting Morocco’s energy outlook. Located off the coast of Tarfaya in the southwestern basin of the Kingdom, a significant oil field could contain up to 22 billion barrels of shale oil. This potential discovery is increasing international investors’ interest in exploring Morocco’s energy resources.
A Major Oil Potential Off the Moroccan Coast
According to data shared by the specialized platform Energy Platform, based in Washington, the Tarfaya basin is believed to have substantial shale oil reserves estimated at nearly 22 billion barrels.
The field stretches along Morocco’s Atlantic coast in a shallow maritime zone covering nearly 23,900 square kilometers. Depths reach about 1,000 meters, while the geological formations of the basin extend over more than 2,500 square kilometers.
Resources Known for Decades
Geological studies indicate that these formations date back to the Cenomanian and Upper Campanian periods. They consist of thick layers of oil shale interspersed with limestone strata of various natures.
Although these resources have been identified since the 1930s, their exploitation remained limited for many years due to the technological and economic constraints of the time.
Up to 80 Billion Tons of Oil-bearing Rocks
Available data reveal that the total volume of oil-bearing rocks in the region could reach 80 billion tons. However, extraction yields vary depending on the geological characteristics of the different layers.
Analysis shows that certain formations display particularly promising performance, with yields exceeding 100 liters of oil per ton of rock. The best results have been observed in layers dating from the late Cenomanian to the early Turonian periods.
International Players Already Committed to Exploration
The growing interest in Morocco’s energy potential has led several international groups to invest in offshore exploration. The Italian company Eni has strengthened its presence in Morocco through its local subsidiary, signing an agreement with the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines in 2017 for exploration off the coast of Tarfaya.
The partnership structure has since evolved with the arrival of QatarEnergy in the project. This reorganization has allowed for the distribution of stakes among the different partners while consolidating exploration programs in the region.
Encouraging Indicators Confirmed by Authorities
In May 2024, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, noted that several exploration operations conducted in Morocco had revealed encouraging signs.
Among the results recorded were the presence of gas accumulations near Boujdour and indications of heavy oil in the offshore Tarfaya area. These findings came as part of drilling campaigns and geophysical studies carried out with international partners.
An Attractive Framework for Investors
The maritime region of Tarfaya currently includes twelve blocks dedicated to exploration. Geological research and seismic campaigns continue to refine the assessment of the true potential of these resources.
Morocco also has a regulatory framework designed to encourage investments in hydrocarbons. This includes tax benefits on discoveries made and specific exemptions for certain offshore productions, enhancing the Kingdom’s attractiveness to international energy sector players.
If future drilling campaigns confirm these estimates, the Tarfaya basin could emerge as one of Morocco’s most strategic energy projects in the coming decades.
