International interest in Greece’s new offshore seismic survey tender

According to information reported by the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA), the objective of the new seismic surveys is to acquire and process non-exclusive data in accordance with the latest industry standards, helping to assess the region’s hydrocarbon potential.

In practical terms, the surveys aim to identify new potential exploration targets in areas where previous discoveries have confirmed the existence of a petroleum system, paving the way for further exploration and drilling by interested companies.

Through this initiative, the Ministry of Environment and Energy is seeking to capitalise on an emerging window of opportunity for hydrocarbon discovery and development, supported by the participation of major international energy companies in Greece’s energy strategy.

Block 2: Greece’s Most Advanced Offshore Exploration Project

The most advanced project is Block 2 in the north-western Ionian Sea, where US energy major ExxonMobil has joined the consortium alongside Energean and HELLENiQ ENERGY. The partners are planning an exploratory drilling campaign for April 2027.

Public consultation on the drilling project’s Environmental Impact Assessment is already under way. Conditional positive opinions have so far been issued by the Regional Council of the Ionian Islands, the Regional Council of Epirus and the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities.

Tender Covers the Ionian Sea and Southern Crete

The tender for the new seismic surveys was announced on 30 June. According to the map accompanying the tender notice, as published in the Official Journal of the European Union, it covers the entire offshore area of the Ionian Sea and the southern Cretan Sea.

The area also includes blocks that have already been awarded for exploration to oil and gas companies operating in Greece, including Chevron, ExxonMobil, HELLENiQ ENERGY and Energean.

Interested parties may submit bids for two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) seismic surveys covering either the entire designated area or specific sections of it.

Where seismic survey activities extend into areas covered by existing active concession agreements, the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company (HEREMA) must obtain the consent of the relevant concession holders before issuing the required survey permit.

The deadline for submitting bids is 9 November, although significant interest has reportedly already been expressed. The tender was launched following an application by PGS Exploration, a company active in the seismic survey industry.

Minister Highlights Greece’s Energy Ambitions

In statements to AMNA, Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou outlined the government’s broader energy strategy, emphasising energy security, investment and the economic benefits for citizens.

“Our energy policy serves a clear national objective: a stronger Greece, with greater energy security and tangible economic benefits for its citizens. Through planning and decisive action, we are unlocking opportunities that have remained untapped for years,” the minister said.

Regarding hydrocarbons, he stressed that Greece is moving from expectations and planning to practical implementation. The exploratory drilling campaign by ExxonMobil, Energean and HELLENiQ ENERGY is scheduled for April 2027, while seismic surveys by the Chevron–HELLENiQ ENERGY consortium are planned by the end of 2026. He described the participation of these US companies as a vote of confidence in Greece’s prospects.

On renewable energy, the minister noted that Greece has established a leading position and that the next objective is to translate this into greater economic benefits for households and businesses, with a focus on energy storage and grid reinforcement. He also highlighted the role of the new spatial planning framework in establishing clear rules for renewable energy development while respecting the environment and local communities.

Papastavrou further underscored Greece’s strategic role in European energy security through the Vertical Gas Corridor. The initiative, he said, contributes to reducing dependence on Russian natural gas, strengthening regional cooperation and enhancing Greece’s geopolitical standing.

The minister also referred to the investment in the Skouries copper and gold mines, inaugurated by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis a few days earlier. According to Papastavrou, the project harnesses Greece’s mineral resources, strengthens the country’s productive base and generates revenue for the state while benefiting the local community.

“The common denominator is our commitment to making responsible and active use of Greece’s natural resources, energy infrastructure and geographical position. Our objective is to strengthen the country’s national standing while delivering tangible economic benefits to citizens. Progress acquires real meaning when it improves people’s everyday economic circumstances and creates opportunities for the next generation,” he concluded.