Total Energies is set to commence offshore drilling in South Africa’s Orange Basin in 2026, pending final regulatory approvals.

This move aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its multi-energy operations across the continent.

Regulatory Reform Accelerates

In October 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act into law, aiming to streamline and modernize South Africa’s oil and gas sector.

The Act emphasizes state and Black South African participation, equitable access, and local content development.

Draft regulations were published in April 2025 for public comment, signaling a commitment to a transparent and investor-friendly environment.

Strategic Investment in the Orange Basin

Total Energies’ renewed interest in South Africa follows significant offshore discoveries in neighboring Namibia.

The company has acquired a 33% stake and operator status in Block 3B/4B, located approximately 200 km off the western coast. This area is considered a promising extension of the Orange Basin’s hydrocarbon potential.