Ecuador Achieves Historic Natural Gas Production Increase at Amistad Field, Bolstering Energy Security and Cost Savings

The Government of Ecuador, under President Daniel Noboa, through Petroecuador, has executed comprehensive well reactivation and optimization efforts at the Amistad Field (Block 6), located offshore in the Gulf of Guayaquil. Using advanced workover techniques and hydraulic drilling equipment, four wells—including high-impact ones such as Amistad 6—were brought back into operation after extended dormancy, increasing daily production from 17.5 to 26 million cubic feet. The intervention included the integration of a newly identified reservoir named Progreso, which is expected to enlarge the block’s current certified reserves of 146 billion cubic feet, reinforcing Amistad’s role as a cornerstone for Ecuador’s energy development and gas supply.

The entire volume of gas produced is allocated to industrial consumption and power generation, primarily feeding the Termogas Machala thermal plant in El Oro province. This shift from diesel to domestically produced natural gas is projected to create savings of around USD 128 million by reducing fuel imports. The government has formally declared Amistad a national priority to secure additional firm energy generation capacity, vital for managing the dry period between September 2025 and March 2026, when an estimated 430 MW of extra generation will be required.

Petroecuador and the Electric Corporation of Ecuador (Celec) are coordinating urgent measures, including gas purchase increases, infrastructure upgrades such as storage and regasification facilities, and pipeline enhancements to guarantee continuous supply. This initiative aligns with medium-term energy security strategies and a national push toward expanding Ecuador’s own energy generation capability, reducing reliance on imports and fossil fuels such as diesel. The expansion and modernization of Amistad highlight the state’s commitment to sustaining and growing its hydrocarbon sector while supporting the transition toward a more stable and efficient energy matrix.