The government of Trinidad and Tobago is celebrating what it calls a “very positive development” for the country’s energy sector following the successful appraisal of the Onyx Field, operated by Perenco Trinidad and Tobago Limited.
The Onyx Field, located offshore in the Columbus Basin between the Teak and Poui fields, has revealed gas-bearing sands after appraisal drilling operations began in January 2025. Perenco, which holds a 70 percent working interest in the field, began drilling the ONYX-02B01 appraisal well and a planned sidetrack on January 17.
Last week, Perenco confirmed the discovery of “significant columns” of natural gas in two separate geological compartments on the eastern section of the Onyx Field. The find, made at a depth of 180 feet, marks a major milestone for the company and potentially for Trinidad and Tobago’s future gas supply.
“Our objective was to prove sufficient gas reserves to unlock field development,” said Gregoire De Courcelles, General Manager of Perenco Trinidad and Tobago. “The wells’ findings are testimony to the hydrocarbon potential which remains in the TSP acreage and highlight Perenco’s commitment to providing future supplies of natural gas to Trinidad and Tobago.”
The Onyx Field was initially discovered during exploration drilling in the Columbus Basin and lies within the Teak, Samaan, and Poui (TSP) license area—a joint venture between Perenco TT, Heritage Petroleum Company Limited, and the National Gas Company (NGC). Perenco is currently reviewing subsurface data, with development options expected to be evaluated ahead of a final investment decision.
In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries noted that the appraisal results bolster national energy security and align with the government’s broader goal of maximizing the production of natural resources.
“We continue to work with stakeholders such as Perenco to ensure that the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s hydrocarbon potential benefits all citizens,” the ministry said.
The successful appraisal of the Onyx Field offers new hope for revitalizing Trinidad and Tobago’s gas production and strengthens the country’s position as a key player in the regional energy landscape.
