In the arid expanse of north-west Patagonia, an enormous drilling rig is at work, sending its steel teeth deep into the earth. Burrowing three kilometres down, the machinery then shifts to churn horizontally, seeking the hidden treasures of thick shale. This geological goldmine, known as Vaca Muerta, is a vital part of Argentina’s oil future, with nearly 40 rigs operating here to uncover its wealth. Stretching from the Andes to the edge of Neuquén, its dark, glistening layers lie beneath the desolate sand.
Javier Milei is heavily investing in Argentina’s Vaca Muerta shale fields, which are on track to produce one million barrels of oil daily by 2030. This large-scale extraction effort, featuring numerous drilling rigs in Patagonia, signifies a turning point for the country’s energy sector, promising substantial economic growth and a shift towards increased energy independence.
Javier Milei’s ambitious push for Argentine oil production hinges on the Vaca Muerta shale fields, set to yield one million barrels daily by 2030. The government’s focus on energy exploration promises to transform the economy, although challenges in the political landscape remain. As these rigs continue their relentless quest for oil, Argentina stands poised at a critical crossroad in its energy journey.
Original Source: www.economist.com
