XOM

Glaucus: The Largest Discovery

ExxonMobil's Game-Changing Find in Block 10

Discovered in February 2019, Glaucus is the largest single gas discovery in Cyprus waters. With estimated reserves of 5-8 Tcf (potentially more), it represents a transformational asset for Cyprus and a major opportunity for ExxonMobil.

5-8
Tcf (P50 estimate)
2019
Discovery Year
Block 10
Location
$25-40B
Potential Value

Why Glaucus Matters

For Cyprus

  • Largest single discovery - validates Cyprus as major gas province
  • Could justify standalone LNG project
  • Potential anchor for EastMed pipeline
  • $10-20B+ in government revenues over field life

For ExxonMobil

  • Major addition to global LNG portfolio
  • Strategic position in Eastern Mediterranean
  • Synergies with QatarEnergy partnership
  • Positions XOM for future Cyprus rounds

Reserve Estimates

Glaucus reserve estimates carry significant uncertainty pending appraisal drilling. The range reflects subsurface uncertainty common for single-well discoveries.

P90 (Low)
4-5 Tcf Conservative estimate
$20-25B
P50 (Best)
5-8 Tcf Most likely outcome
$25-40B
P10 (High)
10+ Tcf Upside potential
$50B+

Note: At 8 Tcf, Glaucus would be larger than Israel's Leviathan (22 Tcf) and comparable to major global LNG projects.

Development Options

Glaucus is large enough to potentially support multiple development concepts. The choice depends on appraisal results, market conditions, and coordination with other Cyprus projects.

Egypt Pipeline

Tie-back to Aphrodite pipeline, process at Idku/Damietta LNG.

Lower CAPEX · Faster timeline

Standalone FLNG

Dedicated floating LNG for Glaucus alone or with nearby prospects.

Highest value · Full control

EastMed Pipeline

Anchor supplier for proposed pipeline to Greece/Europe.

Uncertain · Long-term option

Glaucus Timeline

2017 ExxonMobil and Qatar Petroleum awarded Block 10
2018 Commenced 3D seismic acquisition
2019 Glaucus-1 discovery well drilled - 5-8 Tcf announced
2020 COVID delays appraisal planning
2021 Appraisal program design underway
2022 Delphyne-1 exploration well (dry)
2023 Appraisal well planning continues
2024 Glaucus appraisal drilling expected
2025+ Development concept selection pending appraisal results

Partnership Structure

XOM
ExxonMobil
60%
Operator
QE
QatarEnergy
40%
Partner (formerly Qatar Petroleum)

The ExxonMobil-QatarEnergy partnership brings deep LNG expertise. Qatar is the world's largest LNG exporter, while ExxonMobil has extensive global LNG development experience.

What's Next for Glaucus

  • 2024 Appraisal well drilling to confirm reserves and test reservoir quality
  • 2025 Concept selection based on appraisal results and market conditions
  • 2027+ FID if development economics are favorable
  • 2030+ First gas (earliest realistic timeline)