Gruppo Antonini has officially commenced construction of the WHPA offshore platform, a project aimed at boosting gas production in Libya’s Gulf of Sirte. The company held the First Cut ceremony at its Pertusola shipyard in La Spezia and Arcora mechanical workshop, marking the start of work on the $1.35 billion initiative.

The WHPA platform is part of a broader EPICIC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning) contract awarded by Mellitah Oil & Gas B.V., a joint venture between Eni S.p.A. and Libya’s National Oil Corporation. The contract was granted to a consortium comprising Gruppo Antonini, Rosetti Marino, and Kerry Project Logistics (Italia).

Walter Antonini and Orazio Carlone
Gruppo Antonini’s share of the project is valued at approximately $300 million. The company is responsible for manufacturing the accommodation module, helideck, foundation piles, and related commissioning activities. The WHPA platform, weighing over 20,000 tonnes, will also include a Fast Moving Workover Rig for the Bahr Essalam offshore field.

The First Cut ceremony, attended by Mellitah Oil & Gas and consortium representatives, symbolizes the initial steel-cutting phase. The project reinforces Gruppo Antonini’s role in energy infrastructure development.

The company reported strong growth, with projected 2024 revenues of €90 million, aligning with its 2025-2027 strategic plan focused on innovation, sustainability, and global expansion. Separately, Gruppo Antonini continues to expand its yachting division, Antonini Navi, with four custom steel yachts over 30 meters in length under construction – two of which are scheduled for delivery in 2026.
Through its participation in OMC Ravenna 2025, Gruppo Antonini aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the offshore energy sector, highlighting its capabilities in executing complex projects and embracing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape.
Credits: Gruppo Antonini