Santos (ASX:STO) achieved first oil from the Pikka phase one development in Alaska, according to a Monday Australian bourse filing.

The phase one initiated production was part of the start-up and late-stage commissioning process, and it is expected to lead to an initial ramp-up to gross 20,000 barrels of oil per day over the next few weeks. Water injection is expected to begin after the seawater treatment plant starts up.

The project is expected to reach a production plateau of 80,000 barrels of oil per day during the third quarter.

Santos is the operator of the project, holding a 51% stake in the Pikka Unit, with Repsol holding the remaining 49%.

A total of 28 development wells were drilled in the area where the first oil was produced, of which 21 were stimulated and flowed back in line with pre-drill expectations. Santos and its partner will alternate tanker shipments from the Port of Valdez.