Istanbul: Trkiye has discovered a new natural gas reserve of 75 billion cubic meters (bcm) in the Black Sea, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Saturday. "We have discovered a new natural gas reserve of 75 billion cubic meters in the field. With this amount, we will be able to meet the residential demand alone for approximately 3.5 years," Erdogan said during his speech at the opening of Istanbul Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized Ankara's commitment to energy independence. "We will continue on our path without stopping, without resting, and without paying heed to criticism or obstacles until we reach our goal of a fully energy-independent Trkiye," he stated. Erdogan also highlighted the nation's investments across various energy sectors, including nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, geothermal, solar, oil, and natural gas, aiming to unlock Trkiye's true potential in the energy sector.

The president noted that the economic value of their natural gas discovery is estimated at 30 billion dollars. As part of the Sakarya Project, a floating production platform will be used to develop the field, significantly boosting its economic output. Erdogan revealed that the first phase of Black Sea production is now complete, supplying 9.5 million cubic meters of gas daily, which is sufficient for 4 million households.

Erdogan further outlined the country's production goals, aiming to double gas production by 2026 and quadruple it by 2028, as part of the commitment to achieving full energy independence for Trkiye. He emphasized the ongoing drilling operations and Trkiye's expanding fleet and partnerships domestically and internationally to achieve energy independence.

He concluded by expressing pride in the progress of Turkish survey and drilling ships, which are currently operating as far away as Somalia, showcasing the nation's determination and achievements in the field of energy exploration and production.