TotalEnergies Predicts Six-Month Restart of Gulf Oil Output Visible from Space
TTE•TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne told French lawmakers that if the Strait of Hormuz remains open, Gulf producers could restore normal operations and production within six months. Industry analysts estimate regional output could reach up to 90% of prewar levels in half a year, signaling a major oil supply surge.
1. CEO Timeline and Statement
TotalEnergies chairman and CEO Patrick Pouyanne addressed lawmakers in Paris, stating that a sustained reopening of the Strait of Hormuz would enable Gulf oil fields to resume normal operations and reach prewar output within six months.
2. Output Restart Projections
Industry analysts project that 70% of pre-conflict production can be brought online within three months and up to 90% within six months, driven by maintained reservoir pressure in Saudi and UAE fields.
3. Implications for Supply and Prices
An influx of up to five million barrels per day from the strait could lower global energy prices, support margin expansion for producers and enable major consumers like the US to rebuild emergency inventories.
4. Risks and Operational Challenges
Successful ramp-up depends on coordinated demining operations, ship clearances and infrastructure repairs, with potential setbacks from renewed hostilities or toll imposition by regional authorities.
