SAO TOME & PRRINCPLE: Falcao-1X probe Fails to Find Commercial Hydrocarbons

São Tomé and Príncipe’s offshore hydrocarbon ambitions have faced a setback following an announcement by Shell confirming that the Falcão-1X exploration well did not encounter commercially viable hydrocarbons. The well, drilled in deep offshore waters, was part of ongoing efforts to assess the hydrocarbon potential of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone in the Gulf of Guinea.

According to the announcement, while the Falcão-1X well provided valuable geological and subsurface data, the results did not support commercial development at this stage. As a result, no immediate plans for appraisal or production activities related to the prospect are expected.

Despite the disappointing outcome, industry experts note that dry or non-commercial wells are a common aspect of offshore exploration, particularly in frontier basins such as São Tomé and Príncipe. The data gathered from Falcão-1X is expected to improve understanding of the basin’s geology and help guide future exploration strategies in the region.

For São Tomé and Príncipe, the outcome underscores both the high risks and long timelines associated with oil and gas exploration. The government has reiterated its commitment to attracting responsible investment while balancing exploration efforts with broader economic diversification and sustainable development goals.

While the Falcão-1X result tempers near-term expectations, it does not entirely rule out future exploration potential in the country’s offshore acreage.