South Sudan is expected to resume the export of its heavy sweet Dar Blend crude oil through the Petrodar pipeline to the Bashayer Marine Terminal in Port Sudan within the next six to eight weeks. This crucial pipeline, responsible for transporting approximately 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) for export via Sudan, has faced intermittent stoppages since February.
Finance Minister Awow Daniel Chuang, speaking to Argus Media, revealed that repairs are slated for the Petrodar pipeline while South Sudan continues to rely on the Greater Nile Pipeline to transport Nile Blend crude oil from the Jath and Mala oil fields to the Bashayer terminal for export.
The Petrodar pipeline, according to Energy Capital Power, has encountered various challenges, including gelling issues, leaks, and pressure drops, largely due to shortages of diesel used to heat and dilute the crude oil to facilitate its flow.
Maintenance has been further complicated by ongoing conflicts in Sudan. Consequently, South Sudan’s crude production plummeted by half to approximately 80,000 bpd in March from its previous level of around 150,000 bpd.
In light of these developments, opportunities for investment in South Sudan’s energy sector will be showcased at the upcoming South Sudan Oil & Power 2024 conference and exhibition in Juba from June 25 to 28.
Now in its seventh edition, the event aims to secure financing for energy projects in the country, with a particular focus on fostering private-sector engagement.
