The programme is designed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the region’s energy and mineral resource base, with a particular focus on hydrocarbons and critical raw materials (CRMs). South East Europe (SEE) and the East Mediterranean constitute a strategically important area at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, combining established energy producing zones with emerging resource provinces.
The programme is designed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the region’s energy and mineral resource base, with a particular focus on hydrocarbons and critical raw materials (CRMs). South East Europe (SEE) and the East Mediterranean constitute a strategically important area at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, combining established energy producing zones with emerging resource provinces. In a period marked by energy transition, supply security concerns and growing geopolitical complexity, systematic resource mapping and activity tracking are essential tools for informed policy making, investment planning and regional cooperation.
The programme is structured in two distinct but complementary parts. The first focuses on hydrocarbons, covering oil and natural gas resources, while the second addresses critical raw materials (CRMs), which are increasingly vital for clean energy technologies, industrial competitiveness and strategic autonomy.
(a) Hydrocarbons
The hydrocarbons component of the programme offers a detailed assessment of oil and natural gas resources across SEE and the East Mediterranean. It comprises a systematic review of known and prospective hydrocarbon reserves, drawing from geological data, seismic surveys, exploration results and official reserve estimates. Particular emphasis is placed on offshore areas, which have emerged as key zones of interest in recent years, alongside mature and semi-mature onshore basins.
A core element of this part is the review of oil and gas production, both current and planned. Existing producing fields are analysed and at the same time, the programme evaluates new discoveries and development projects, assessing their potential contribution to regional supply and their expected timelines. This production review provides critical insight into the evolving role of hydrocarbons in the region’s energy mix.
Closely linked to reserve and production analysis is the systematic tracking of company activity. The programme monitors exploration and production (E&P) programmes undertaken by international oil companies, national energy companies and independent operators. Licensing rounds, concession awards, farm-in and farm-out agreements, drilling campaigns and appraisal activities are examined in order to identify trends, investment appetite and strategic priorities. This allows for a clear understanding of where momentum is building and where activity may be slowing.
Hydrocarbon transport and logistics form another major pillar of the programme. Existing and planned pipeline infrastructure is reviewed, including cross-border oil and gas pipelines that play a critical role in regional energy security and market integration. The programme also covers LNG infrastructure, such as liquefaction plants, FSRUs, etc., shipping routes and tanker activity, analysing imports and exports of crude oil, petroleum products and natural gas. Special attention is given to the role of ports, LNG terminals and maritime corridors in the East Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
Downstream activities are examined through a review of refining capacity, utilisation rates and modernisation plans across the region. The programme assesses how refineries are adapting to changing demand patterns, stricter environmental regulations and the gradual energy transition. Storage infrastructure for stock maintenance, both on land and at sea, is also analysed, as it is a key element of supply resilience and market flexibility.
(b) Critical Raw Materials (CRMs)
The second part of the programme addresses Critical Raw Materials, recognising their growing strategic importance for Europe and the wider region. CRMs are essential for a wide range of applications, including renewable energy technologies, batteries, electric vehicles, electronics, defence systems and advanced manufacturing. Ensuring secure and sustainable access to these materials has become a top priority at both national and European level.
This part of the programme focuses on the mapping of actual and potential CRM resources across SEE and the East Mediterranean. Geological data, historical mining records and recent exploration results are used to identify known deposits and prospective areas for minerals such as lithium, rare earth elements, cobalt, nickel, bauxite, copper, magnesium and other strategically important materials. The programme highlights both currently exploited resources and underexplored or emerging prospects.
A comprehensive review of mining activity is a central component. Active mines are analysed in terms of production levels, ownership structures, export orientation and environmental performance. The programme also examines the status of dormant or closed mines, assessing their potential for re-opening or re-development in light of rising demand and improved technologies. This analysis provides valuable insight into the region’s existing contribution to CRM supply chains.
Looking forward, the programme systematically tracks new, planned or proposed mining projects. Exploration licences, feasibility studies, permitting processes and announced investments are monitored to identify future supply potential. Particular attention is given to projects linked to battery materials and clean energy technologies, as these are expected to see the strongest growth. The programme also considers social, environmental and regulatory factors that influence project development and investment risk.
By integrating resource mapping with activity tracking, this part of the programme offers a realistic picture of CRM prospects in SEE and the East Mediterranean. It supports informed decision-making by policy makers, investors and industry stakeholders seeking to balance supply security, economic development and sustainability.