In a historic development for the national energy sector, ExxonMobil has received the green light to begin hydrocarbon exploration in Trinidad and Tobago’s ultra-deepwater marine area.
The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has officially granted a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) to ExxonMobil Trinidad and Tobago Deepwater Limited.
The certification approves a massive three-dimensional (3D) seismic survey covering a total area of 8,825 square kilometres within Block TTUD-1, located off the east coast of Trinidad.
Officials are hailing the issuance of the CEC as a significant milestone, marking the first time environmental clearance has been granted for exploration activities in the country’s ultra-deepwater zone—a frontier considered crucial for the future of the nation’s hydrocarbon production.
The certificate was formally presented during a handover ceremony attended by high-level government officials, signalling the administration’s support for the venture.
Minister of Planning and Development Kennedy Swaratsingh and Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Dr. Roodal Moonilal were present to witness the handover, underscoring the strategic importance of unlocking resources in deeper waters.
The survey is expected to provide critical data on potential reserves in Block TTUD-1, paving the way for future drilling and development.
