Permian Basin operators are wrapping up 2025 with a notable rise in drilled but uncompleted wells (DUCs) — about 25% more than where they started the year. At first glance, that might look like deferred production, but it’s actually a calculated move shaped by market and operational realities.
The Government of British Columbia has officially approved the Ksi Lisims LNG project, granting its provincial environmental assessment certificate after nearly five years of review. This milestone clears the way for construction to begin as early as this year on a $16.8 billion project that promises to reshape Canada’s energy landscape.
Civitas Permian Operating, LLC has cleared another milestone in its West Texas growth strategy. The company recently secured approval for a new air permit covering its NICE MARMOT facility in Reeves County, Texas (Project #398014). The permit, issued September 10, 2025, reflects Civitas’ continued investment in the Permian Basin and supports future oil and gas production from the lease.
The Alpine F258X CTB permit is more than a routine filing—it’s a signal of Ovintiv’s integrated approach to Pad Development + Centralized Facilities + Basin-Wide Optimization. By combining near-term execution on the Alpine lease with basin-wide efficiency and deep inventory, Ovintiv is reinforcing its role as one of the most disciplined and productive operators in the Permian Basin.
Chord Energy is bolstering its Williston Basin position with a high-quality, long-lateral development opportunity from Exxon’s XTO unit. The deal is designed to be highly accretive, extend inventory, improve portfolio economics, and maintain one of the strongest balance sheets in the peer group.
The U.S. oil and gas rig count inched higher last week, marking the second consecutive weekly gain—a rare streak in 2025. According to the latest Baker Hughes data, the total rig count climbed to 539 active rigs, up two from the prior week.
Devon Energy (NYSE: DVN) delivered a steady second quarter of 2025, balancing multi-basin strength with ongoing headwinds from weak natural gas prices. The company drilled 309 wells year-to-date, led by New Mexico activity, while maintaining production of 841,000 BOE/D with nearly half from oil. Strong operating cash flow of $1.5 billion supported $589 million in free cash flow, keeping Devon’s balance sheet resilient as it navigates gas oversupply and positions for long-term LNG-driven demand growth.
Occidental Petroleum (NYSE: OXY) has update, driven by robust fundamentals, operational excellence, and a balance sheet strengthened by aggressive debt reduction. OXY’s unique positioning at the intersection of traditional oil and gas strength and a forward-looking energy transition strategy.
In 2025 YTD, Eagle Ford activity is led by ConocoPhillips, EOG, Crescent Energy, Webb County, and a more diversified contractor mix, though overall volumes are down from 2024. Earnings calls reinforce operator commitment, with ConocoPhillips driving growth through Marathon synergies and EOG setting drilling records to improve efficiency.
The global energy industry faces a fundamental challenge: balancing affordability, reliability, and environmental protection. Overemphasizing one aspect often leads to setbacks in the others. For companies and countries alike, finding equilibrium in this “energy trilemma” has become critical.
