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Chevron (CVX), PDVSA Launch New Drilling Plan in Venezuela

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A joint venture (JV) between Chevron Corporation (CVX - Free Report) , a U.S. oil giant, and Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA has initiated its new drilling campaign.  This is part of CVX’s plan to significantly increase oil output in Venezuela's oil industry. This move comes amid a complex geopolitical landscape, with U.S. sanctions on Venezuela and upcoming elections in both countries adding layers of uncertainty. Let’s delve into the details of this ambitious venture, highlighting its implications and prospects.

Petroindependencia's Milestone Achievement

Petroindependencia, the JV between PDVSA and Chevron, has commenced its latest drilling campaign by initiating the drilling of the first of its 17 planned wells. This JV represents a strategic effort to improve the region's production capabilities.

Authorization and Compliance

Chevron, which has the U.S. authorization to operate in Venezuela through JVs with PDVSA, follows regulatory frameworks while conducting operations. The collaboration spans multiple onshore and offshore projects, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Exploration in Carabobo 2 Block

The inaugural well of the 2024 drilling campaign, named CMI14, was drilled in February within the Carabobo 2 Block situated in the Orinoco Belt. This location holds immense significance due to its rich oil reserves, making it a focal point for exploration activities.

Production Enhancement Strategy

With the execution of the 2024 drilling campaign, Chevron aims to augment its total output from its JV (with PDVSA) by approximately 35% within the following year. This ambitious target highlights CVX’s commitment to achieving sustainable growth and maximizing operational efficiency.

Projected Output Increase

Back in September 2023, Chevron revealed its ambitious target of increasing production by 65,000 barrels per day (bpd) from its ventures with PDVSA by the end of 2024. This projection reflects the company's strategic vision and long-term objectives within Venezuela’s oil sector.

Market Dynamics and Political Landscape

Amid geopolitical tensions and regulatory uncertainties, the continuity of U.S. waivers on Venezuela's oil exports remains a critical factor influencing market dynamics. The Biden Administration's cautious approach, driven by concerns over crude oil and gasoline prices, adds a layer of complexity to the situation.

Prospects

As the 2024 drilling campaign progresses, stakeholders closely monitor developments within Venezuela’s oil industry. The success of the JV is expected to influence the market dynamics in the coming years.

Conclusion

The initiation of the new drilling campaign by Chevron and PDVSA's JV marks a milestone in the pursuit of enhancing production capabilities within Venezuela's oil sector. With ambitious targets and strategic initiatives, the collaboration highlights a shared commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Zacks Rank and Key Picks

Currently, CVX carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).  

Investors interested in the energy sector might look at some better-ranked stocks like Murphy USA Inc. (MUSA - Free Report) , Archrock, Inc. (AROC - Free Report) and Sunoco LP (SUN - Free Report) , each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Murphy USA is valued at approximately $8.88 billion. In the past year, the company’s shares have surged 61.6%.

MUSA markets retail motor fuel products and convenience merchandise, operating retail stores under the brands Murphy USA, Murphy Express and QuickChek.

Archrock is valued at $3.09 billion. The company currently pays a dividend of 66 cents per share, or 3.33%, on an annual basis.

AROC, together with its subsidiaries, works as an energy infrastructure company in the United States. The company operates under two segments — Contract Operations and Aftermarket Services.

Sunoco is valued at $6.05 billion. It is a major wholesale motor fuel distributor in the United States, distributing over 10 fuel brands through long-term contracts with more than 10,000 convenience stores, thereby ensuring consistent cash flow.

SUN’s extensive distribution network across 40 states provides a robust and reliable source of income, and the Brownsville terminal expansion should add to its revenue diversification.

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