Finder Energy’s Kuda Tasi and Jahal oil development project in Timor-Leste received strong government endorsement and an independent resource upgrade, accelerating its path to first oil by 2027.
- KTJ Project gains endorsement from Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta
- Independent resource upgrade increases contingent oil volumes
- Advanced seismic imaging enhances reservoir understanding
- Fast-track development plan targets first oil by end of 2027
- Strategic alliance with SLB to accelerate FEED and project delivery
Government Endorsement Elevates KTJ Project Profile
Finder Energy Holdings Limited has garnered significant political support for its Kuda Tasi and Jahal (KTJ) oil development project in Timor-Leste. During the 2025 Timor-Leste Energy, Mining and Business Forum in Dili, President José Ramos-Horta personally acknowledged the project’s importance, highlighting the government’s commitment to backing high-quality offshore developments. This rare presidential endorsement underscores the strategic value of the KTJ Project within Timor-Leste’s evolving energy landscape.
Resource Upgrade Validates Project Potential
Independent verification by RISC Advisory has confirmed an increase in the KTJ Project’s contingent oil resources, with a notable 31% uplift in the low estimate (1C) and a 14% rise in the mid estimate (2C). This upgrade follows advanced seismic reprocessing that delivered sharper imaging of key reservoirs and fault structures, reducing geological uncertainty and enhancing confidence in resource estimates. The KTJ Project now boasts approximately 25 million barrels of contingent oil resources, forming a robust foundation for securing project financing and advancing development.
Technological Advances and Strategic Partnerships
Finder Energy has leveraged cutting-edge 3D seismic reprocessing technology to unlock additional value within the KTJ reservoirs. The improved data quality has facilitated more precise reservoir modelling and optimized well placement strategies. Complementing this technical progress, the company has formed a strategic alliance with Schlumberger (SLB) to accelerate front-end engineering and design (FEED) activities. This partnership aims to streamline project delivery and support the fast-track development schedule targeting first oil by the end of 2027.
Development Strategy and Regional Upside
The KTJ Project’s development concept centers on a cost-effective floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) system, utilizing seabed electrical submersible pumps to maximize recovery from high-quality Laminaria Formation reservoirs. The oil is characterized as light sweet crude with low impurities, enhancing its market appeal. Beyond KTJ, Finder Energy’s license area includes promising undeveloped discoveries such as Krill and Squilla, and multiple prospects like Karungu and Lanjara, collectively representing significant upside potential. These assets could extend the project’s lifespan and increase overall resource value.
Looking Ahead
With final investment decision (FID) targeted by mid-2026, Finder Energy is progressing rapidly through engineering, securing key equipment, and advancing funding discussions. The company’s engagement with Timor-Leste’s government and industry stakeholders reflects a collaborative approach to unlocking the region’s hydrocarbon potential. While contingent resources remain subject to further appraisal and development risks, the KTJ Project’s momentum positions it as a cornerstone asset for Finder Energy’s growth strategy.
Bottom Line?
As Finder Energy advances toward FID and first oil, the KTJ Project’s evolving resource base and strong government backing set the stage for a transformative chapter in Timor-Leste’s energy sector.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Finder Energy secure final investment decision financing amid global energy market volatility?
- What are the timelines and plans for appraisal drilling to convert contingent resources to reserves?
- How might regional geopolitical dynamics influence project development and export logistics?