Santos today announced the successful loading of the first crude oil cargo from the Pikka phase 1 development on Alaska’s North Slope.

The inaugural cargo of 450,000 barrels of Alaska North Slope crude was loaded aboard the Polar Resolution at the Valdez Marine Terminal and is destined for the United States West Coast refining system.

Pikka phase 1 is currently producing approximately 23,000 barrels of oil per day (gross), building toward plateau production of approximately 80,000 barrels of oil per day, expected during the third quarter of 2026.

Santos Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gallagher said the loading of the first cargo marked the commencement of commercial exports from Pikka and another important milestone for Santos.

“When the Pikka Field was discovered, the Nanushuk formation was recognised as a new generation play in an established global super basin, and we are proud to be at the forefront of unlocking its resource potential.

“The Pikka phase 1 project has demonstrated Santos’ capability to develop this world-class resource safely, responsibly and efficiently. We are already improving technical limits during our drilling program that save time and cost, and we will continue to pursue improved performance.

“With Pikka phase 1 now in operation, our focus is on transitioning from project execution to our disciplined, low-cost operating model, to maximise the project’s long-term value for shareholders,” Mr Gallagher said.

Santos operates the project and holds a 51 per cent interest in the Pikka Unit, with Repsol holding the remaining 49 per cent. The project was delivered through a strong partnership with contractors, the State of Alaska, Alaska Native corporations and local communities.

About Santos

Santos is a leading supplier of natural gas, a fuel for the future providing clean energy to improve the lives of people in Australia and Asia.
Santos is already Australia’s biggest domestic gas supplier and aims to be a leading Asia-Pacific LNG supplier. For more than 65 years, Santos has been working in partnership with local communities, providing Australian jobs and business opportunities, safely and sustainably developing Australia’s natural gas resources, and powering Australian industries and households.

With its origins in the Cooper Basin, Santos has one of the largest exploration and production acreages in Australia and extensive infrastructure and is committed to supplying the domestic markets, unlocking resources and driving value and performance.