Written by Oko Immanuel I Wed 18 2026 offshorepipelineInsight
The Stabroek Block: Heart of Guyana’s Oil Boom, Operated by ExxonMobilDeep beneath the Atlantic waters, about 120 miles off Guyana’s coast, lies one of the most prolific oil frontiers in recent history: the Stabroek Block. Operated by ExxonMobil (with a 45% stake), alongside partners Chevron/Hess (30%) and CNOOC (25%), this massive offshore area has transformed Guyana into a global energy player since the landmark Liza discovery in 2015.As of February 2026, the block is the epicenter of Guyana’s accelerating oil boom, with estimated recoverable resources nearing 11 billion oil-equivalent barrels. Production from four operational developments already exceeds 900,000 barrels per day (bpd), and upcoming projects like Uaru and Whiptail are set to push capacity well over 1 million bpd soon.
Why the Stabroek Block Stands Out
- Efficient Development Model: ExxonMobil uses FPSOs (Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels) for quick, cost-effective ramp-up no massive fixed platforms needed. This has enabled Guyana to go from zero production in 2019 to world-class output in under a decade.
- Economic Powerhouse: Low breakeven costs (~$30/bbl) make it resilient. Oil revenues fuel Guyana’s explosive growth, funding infrastructure, education, health, and a shift toward cleaner energy via gas-to-shore projects.
Visualizing the Heart of the Boom
Here are detailed maps showing the Stabroek Block’s location, boundaries, and major discoveries (labeled with fields like Liza, Payara, Yellowtail, Uaru, Hammerhead, and others). These highlight its position relative to Guyana’s coastline, neighboring blocks (Kaieteur, Canje), and surrounding countries.A closer look at the cluster of discoveries in the southern part of the block, where most production is concentrated:
These maps show the block hugging Guyana’s continental shelf, extending northward into ultra-deep waters—perfect for the high-volume finds that keep the boom going.
A closer look at the cluster of discoveries in the southern part of the block, where most production is concentrate.
Current Status and What’s Next (February 2026)
- Four FPSOs are online: Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, Prosperity (Payara), and ONE GUYANA (Yellowtail), hitting ~900,000 bpd.
- The fifth FPSO, Errea Wittu (for Uaru), has completed mooring pre-installation and is on track for startup later in 2026, adding ~250,000 bpd.
- Hammerhead (seventh project) is approved, targeting 2029 startup at ~150,000 bpd.
- Gas focus is growing: Pipelines from Liza feed a new onshore power plant by late 2026, cutting electricity costs and emissions, with more gas export plans ahead.
The Stabroek Block isn’t just about oil it’s rewriting Guyana’s future, turning resource wealth into real development while navigating sustainability and global energy shifts. What excites (or concerns) you most about this boom? Drop your thoughts below, and follow for more deep dives into Guyana’s energy revolution!
Oko Immanuel (M.Eng) Petroleum/Subsea Engineer .