Since 1995, NIOC has made several other sizable Oil discoveries, including the 3-5-billion-Barrel Darkhovin onshore oilfield, located near Abadan and containing low sulfur, 39° API Crude Oil. In late June 2001, Eni signed a nearly $1 billion, 5 1/2-year buyback deal to develop Darkhovin, with the added incentive of a limited risk/reward element (payment is to be linked to production capacity). Darkhovin came online at 50,000 bbl/d in July 2005, with ultimate production expected to reach 160,000 bbl/d.

Another oil discovery in western Iran near the Iraqi border was made recently by Norsk Hydro, in the 2-billion-barrel Anaran field. According to Norsk Hydro, Anaran could produce more than 100,000 bbl/d of oil, possibly starting in 2010. Lukoil is a minority partner in the field. Reportedly, development of Anaran is complicated by the need to clear landmines in the area.

NIOC also would like to develop five oil and Natural Gas fields in the Hormuz region: Henjam A (known as West Bukha by Oman; the two countries are discussing possible joint development); the A field near Lavan Island; the Esfandir field near Kharg Island; and two structures near the South Pars natural gas field. According to NIOC, the five Henjam fields hold an estimated 400 million barrels of oil and have a production potential of 80,000 bbl/d. Other Iranian oil fields slated for increases include Doroud, Nosrat, Farzam, and Salman.

In February 2001, NIOC announced the discovery of a very large offshore oil field, named Dasht-e Abadan, in shallow waters near the port city of Abadan.

Source: Energy Information Administration