French oil and gas major, TotalEnergies, is commemorating the 20th anniversary of Girassol, its first deepwater Floating Production System (FPSO). Girassol is in Block 17 off the coast of Angola and was brought online in 2001. It has enabled the firm to establish itself as a top producer and operator in the Angolan market.

Girassol produces about 7% of Angola’s daily output as a conventional oilfield. The FPSO is located in Block 17 and has a water depth of 4,477 feet. It is expected to operate until 2034 when the field reaches maturity.

Block 17 is known as Angola’s “Golden Block” because of its very productive oil resources. It is made up of four major hubs, including Girassol. TotalEnergies produces 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) on average in Block 17, with Girassol peaking at 260,000 bpd.