YPF to Expand Technical Studies for Argentina GNL in San Matías Gulf

YPF will continue this week the geophysical and oceanographic campaign associated with Argentina GNL in San Matías Gulf. The work will be aimed at gathering technical information for project development and will extend for approximately seven days.

Operations will be conducted from the Rustrigen, an Argentine-flagged vessel equipped with specialized equipment for this type of work. The program includes the review and maintenance of devices previously installed in the study area.

These instruments measure currents, wave patterns, and sea levels. The data obtained will be used to deepen understanding of environmental conditions and advance future engineering studies linked to offshore infrastructure.

The campaign adds to geotechnical studies conducted in February on the seabed. According to reports, activities will be developed under safety, quality, and environmental protection criteria, in accordance with applicable regulations.

The Río Negro provincial government considers this work part of long-term planning to position the province as a platform for liquefied natural gas production, processing, and export. Argentina GNL projects initial capacity of up to 12 million tonnes annually by 2030, with potential expansion to 18 million.

In August, YPF, Eni, and XRG requested the project's entry into the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI). The initiative contemplates an estimated investment of US$51 billion and transportation, processing, and export facilities for natural gas from Vaca Muerta. The disclosed scheme includes two floating liquefaction units off the Río Negro coast, with combined projected capacity of 12 million tonnes annually.