Libya has begun trial operations of a long-delayed gas pipeline, marking a step toward easing production constraints and increasing exports, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) said on Monday.
The development underscores renewed efforts by Africa’s second-largest oil producer to strengthen its energy sector.
The 130-kilometre, 42-inch pipeline connects the Intisar A/103 field to the Brega gas network and is expected to recover around 150 million cubic feet of gas per day that was previously flared.
This will raise domestic supply while freeing up additional volumes for export.
NOC said the project, stalled for roughly 16 years, will also reduce operational disruptions caused by back pressure, improving efficiency across the country’s gas infrastructure.
The move forms part of a broader push to revive output following years of instability since 2011.
In recent months, Libya has announced new discoveries and launched its first licensing round since 2007 to attract foreign investors.
The country aims to lift gas production to 1 billion cubic feet per day and expand exports to Europe by the early 2030s.
Despite holding about 80 trillion cubic feet in reserves, Libya’s gas exports remain constrained, with limited flows through the Greenstream pipeline to Italy.