"The water depths and reservoir structure make Atlantis among the most technologically challenging developments undertaken by BP," said Andy Inglis, BP's Chief Executive of Exploration and Production. "Start-up is an important milestone as we grow production from our strong upstream portfolio in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico and elsewhere in the world."
Production commenced with the commissioning of wells and facilities in October 2007. With gas facilities and export pipelines now fully commissioned, gas sales have started and oil volumes are increasing. Additional wells will continue to be brought on stream, and the facility is expected to reach plateau production by end of calendar year 2008.
BP began production operations in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico in 1995. Since then, the company has participated in a series of major projects, investing more than $14 billion.
"The investment we are making to deliver world class projects like Atlantis in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico is making a major contribution to US energy supply and US energy security," said Bob Malone, Chairman and President of BP America.
BP is operator of Atlantis with 56 percent ownership. BHP Billiton has a 44 per cent working interest.