Bowleven Spins Bit Offshore Cameroon

- Bowleven Spins Bit Offshore Cameroon

Thursday, August 11, 2011
BowLeven plc

Bowleven has commenced on the Sapele-3 well, Douala Basin, offshore Cameroon, with the Sapphire Driller jackup rig.

The Sapele-3 well, located around sixteen kilometres North West of the Sapele-1 location, is targeting the Tertiary interval and is to be drilled to an estimated target depth of circa 3,550 meters in water depths of around 30 meters.

Oil & Gas Post

Promote Your Page Too
LINK

Bowleven Flows Oil at Sapele-2 Offshore Cameroon

- Bowleven Flows Oil at Sapele-2 Offshore Cameroon

Monday, August 01, 2011
BowLeven plc

Bowleven announced the following update on activities on block MLHP-5, Etinde Permit, offshore Cameroon.

Highlights

• Sapele-2 testing program completed despite compromised well bore conditions and operational issues, with oil and gas produced from the Deep and Lower Omicron intervals
• Peak flow rate of 2,738 boepd, including high quality light oil, produced by DST 2 in the Deep Omicron interval
• Drilling results, comparisons with Sapele-1 and seismic interpretation infer a laterally extensive Deep Omicron system, allowing updates to our views of system volumetrics
• P90 unrisked in place estimates for Sapele Deep Omicron discovery area and Mean for Deep Omicron fairway assessed by Bowleven as 87 mmboe and 477 mmboe respectively
• Flowed gas condensate from Lower Omicron interval; operational issues curtailed testing
• P90 unrisked in place estimates for Sapele Lower Omicron discovery area and Mean for Lower Omicron fairway assessed by Bowleven as 14 mmboe and 203 mmboe respectively
• Further appraisal drilling will be carried out as part of the appraisal plan

Kevin Hart, Chief Executive of Bowleven plc, commented, "We are delighted to have now flowed oil on test from the Deep Omicron interval at both Sapele-1ST and Sapele-2 and to have achieved the first hydrocarbon flow from the Lower Omicron interval. Comparisons with Sapele-1 and seismic interpretation indicate that we have a laterally extensive Deep Omicron system. The Sapele discoveries provide a foundation to Bowleven's strategy of moving resources to reserves on block MLHP-5 and the preparation of an appraisal plan for the area is already underway. With extensive remaining potential yet to be targeted, Bowleven's strategy will also comprehensively embrace the exploration opportunities on the acreage and we now look forward to drilling Sapele-3."

Sapele-2 test update

The principal objective of Sapele-2 was to appraise both the Lower and Deep Omicron discoveries encountered in the Sapele-1 exploration well.

As previously announced, the Sapele-2 well encountered log evaluated net pay of approximately 19 meters and 16 meters within the Deep Omicron and Lower Omicron intervals respectively. The well was drilled to a TD of 3,749 meters in water depths of around 25 meters approximately five kilometers south west of the original Sapele-1 vertical well.

The results of the three drill stem tests (DSTs) performed at Sapele-2 are outlined below:

Deep Omicron

DST1

The basal sand situated on top of the cross-cut event, encountered at Sapele-1 and Sapele-1ST but not tested, flowed light oil on test at Sapele-2, the first hydrocarbon flow from this interval. A peak flow rate of 381 boepd, comprising 233 bopd of light oil and 0.89 mmscfd of associated gas on a 12/64 inch choke was produced. While no MDT data was acquired to confirm connectivity, all three wells have log evaluated net pay at this level and based on seismic correlation, the interval can be mapped between all three wells and over a wide area.

DST2

A peak rate of 2,738 boepd, comprising 1,818 bopd of light oil and 5.52 mmscfd of associated gas on a 32/64 inch choke was produced. Reservoir pressure was seen to re-charge over the period of the DST, inferring a wider hydraulic system. Based on initial log evaluation, lower productivity was encountered on test than anticipated, potentially due to formation damage sustained during drilling activities.

Light oil ranging from 39 to 42 degree API was produced from the two DSTs performed in the Deep Omicron interval. The Sapele-1 well had a confirmed oil pressure gradient at Deep Omicron and oil samples were obtained during logging activities. The oil quality, gas-oil ratio and pressures measured on test at Sapele-2 are comparable to the samples and pressures taken at Sapele-1. DST pressures, the log correlation between wells and seismic interpretation infer a laterally extensive Deep Omicron system. Pressure communication between Sapele-1 and Sapele-2 at an individual reservoir level cannot be confirmed given the inability to acquire MDT data due to borehole conditions.

Lower Omicron

DST3

The interval flowed gas at rates of up to 3.1 mmscfd, the first hydrocarbon flow from this interval, however testing operations were curtailed due to a pressure leak in the test string. Consequently, although liquids were present their flow rate was not recorded.

Forward plan

With the testing programme now concluded at Sapele-2, the Sapphire Driller rig is expected to move to the Sapele-3 location. A further announcement will be made on commencement of drilling operations at Sapele-3. The proposed location for Sapele-3, an exploration well with an appraisal component, has been selected, subject to attaining government approval. The well design on Sapele-3 has been optimised to take into account the pressure regimes encountered on the Block so far. Sapele-3 is targeting a prospect size of 50 million barrels. The joint venture partner, Vitol, has elected not to participate in the drilling of the Sapele-3 exploration well. Consequently Bowleven, as operator, has proposed drilling this well on a sole risk basis, as Sapele-3, which is designed to appraise the sands of the D1-R Discovery and explore the periphery of the Upper and Lower Omicron fairways, is a potentially significant well with material upside.

Oil & Gas Post

Promote Your Page Too
LINK

Victoria O&G Ups Stake in Cameroon Field

- Victoria O&G Ups Stake in Cameroon Field

Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Victoria O&G plc

Victoria O&G has increased its effective working interest in the Logbaba gas and gas condensate field in Douala, Cameroon ("Logbaba Concession") to 95% following the serving of a Notice of Forfeiture on July 18, 2011 on RSM Production Corporation ("RSM") which previously had a 38% interest in the Logbaba Concession.

The activities at the Logbaba Concession are regulated by a number of legal agreements between VOG's 100% subsidiary Rodeo Developments Limited ("RDL") and RSM which cover various operating and legal matters including the obligation for RSM to meet appropriately evidenced cash calls raised by RDL for the costs of development and operation at the Logbaba Concession.

RSM failed to make payment under a cash call made on June 15, 2011, and a notice of default was served on July 2, 2011. As RSM failed to rectify the default, RDL has served Notice of Forfeiture in accordance with the Operating Agreement ("Agreement") between RDL and RSM. The effect of this is to require RSM to withdraw from the Agreement and transfer RSM's former interest to RDL.

As announced on 6 May 2011 Societé National des Hydrocarbures, ("SNH") has indicated that it intends to exercise its right to take a 5% participation in the Logbaba Concession, and will pay its share of development costs. Following the forfeiture VOG, through RDL, will have a 95% interest and SNH will have the remaining 5% interest.

Kevin Foo, Chairman of VOG commented, "We are disappointed to be in the position where we have had to take this step, but it is important for all participants to meet their obligations at Logbaba, not just VOG. We look forward to working with SNH to drive this project forward to first gas later this year."

Oil & Gas Post

Promote Your Page Too
LINK

Bowleven's Sapele Sidetrack Tests Positive Offshore Cameroon

- Bowleven's Sapele Sidetrack Tests Positive Offshore Cameroon

Thursday, June 09, 2011
BowLeven plc

Bowleven announced the results of testing activities at the Sapele-1ST appraisal well drilling in the Douala Basin, offshore Cameroon. Drill stem testing was performed within the Deep Omicron interval at Sapele-1ST and a light oil flowed on test.

Highlights

• Stabilized flow rate of 3,101 boepd produced on test at Sapele-1ST
• High quality light oil (39.2 degree API) produced on test; oil quality and gas-oil ratio comparable to that encountered at the original Sapele-1 well
• Testing program underway at Sapele-2

Sapele-1ST update

The principal objective of Sapele-1ST was to appraise the Deep Omicron oil discovery encountered in the Sapele-1 exploration well.

As previously announced, the Sapele-1ST well encountered log evaluated net pay conservatively estimated to be approximately 10 meters within the Deep Omicron interval, based on conventional wireline logs. The well was drilled to a TVD of 3,634 meters (4,483 meters measured depth) in water depths of around 25 meters approximately 2 kilometers south east of the Deep Omicron oil discovery in the original Sapele-1 vertical well.

Drill stem testing at Sapele-1ST was conducted over a 71 meter perforated interval. The interval flowed at a stabilized rate of 2,023 bopd of 39.2 degree API oil and approximately 6.47 mmscfd of associated gas on a 56/64 inch choke.

The interval tested at Sapele-1ST correlates on seismic with the equivalent Deep Omicron interval drilled by the original Sapele-1 well, where better developed sands were encountered. The Sapele-1 well had a confirmed oil pressure gradient at Deep Omicron and oil samples were obtained during logging activities. The oil quality, gas-oil ratio and pressures measured on test at Sapele-1ST are comparable to the samples and pressures taken at Sapele-1.

Forward plan

Due to the stratigraphic nature of the Omicron discoveries further analysis and appraisal is required to delineate the fields and to assess the implications for resource estimates and potential development options for these discoveries. The productivity demonstrated by the Deep Omicron test at Sapele-1ST is a key step forward. In addition, a testing program is ongoing at Sapele-2, drilled to appraise both the Lower and Deep Omicron discoveries, and the results from this will be integral to this process.

As planned the Noble Tommy Craighead rig is being released after Sapele-1ST testing for a mandatory recertification process.

An update announcement and conference call are planned on completion of the full test program at Sapele-2, which is expected in around two to three weeks. Further announcements on drilling activities will be made as appropriate.

Kevin Hart, Chief Executive of Bowleven plc, commented, "Bowleven is delighted to announce its first oil flow test in the Douala Basin, offshore Cameroon, at Sapele-1ST. The flow rates produced at Sapele-1ST are believed to be commercial. These are highly encouraging, particularly so given that better sand development was encountered in the original Sapele-1 well at the equivalent level, with good indications of comparability between the two. While further appraisal is required to fully understand the resource potential, we are encouraged by the result and the likelihood of a commercial development at Sapele given the shallow water depths. Our acreage in Cameroon shows increasing potential as we focus on our dual strategy of targeting high impact exploration potential in the Douala Basin and converting resources to reserves."

Oil & Gas Post

Promote Your Page Too

Atwood Aurora Contracted to Drill Offshore Cameroon

- Atwood Aurora Contracted to Drill Offshore Cameroon

Friday, June 03, 2011
Atwood Oceanics Inc.

Atwood Oceanics' subsidiaries has been awarded a contract by a subsidiary of Noble Energy for the Atwood Aurora. With contract commencement expected in October 2011, the award has an estimated firm duration of 240 days plus an option well with an estimated duration of approximately 40 days. The day rate for work offshore Cameroon will be approximately $126,000 and for work offshore Equatorial Guinea, the day rate will be approximately $134,000. With the award of this contract, the firm contractual commitments for the Atwood Aurora are expected to extend through May 2012.

Oil & Gas Post

Promote Your Page Too

Bowleven Hits Hydrocarbons Offshore Cameroon

Bowleven Hits Hydrocarbons Offshore Cameroon

Wednesday, April 20, 2011
BowLeven plc

Bowleven announced that the Sapele-1ST well drilling in the Douala Basin, offshore Cameroon has encountered a total of 23 meters of net hydrocarbon-bearing pay in the Omicron objectives based on the results of drilling, conventional wireline logs, samples of reservoir fluid and pressure data. A testing program is expected to commence shortly.

Highlights

• 23 meters of log evaluated net hydrocarbon pay encountered in the Omicron objectives at Sapele-1ST.
• Preparing for testing program at Sapele-1ST.
• Sapele-2 well progressing on schedule.

Sapele-1ST drilling update

The principal objective of Sapele-1ST was to appraise the Deep Omicron oil discovery encountered in the Sapele-1 exploration well. The well was also designed to intersect both the Upper and Lower Omicron objectives.

The well was drilled to a TVD of 3,634 meters (4,483 meters measured depth) in water depths of around 25 meters approximately 2 kilometers South East from the Deep Omicron oil discovery in the original vertical well.

Bowleven, as operator, provides updates for the reservoir sections encountered at Sapele-1ST below:

Upper Omicron

1.4 meters of net pay were intersected overlying approximately 24 meters of high quality reservoir which following sampling was confirmed as water bearing.

Lower Omicron

The well has intersected a log evaluated hydrocarbon interval that is interpreted to comprise fair quality thinly interbedded reservoir units. Provisional net pay is estimated to be approximately 11 meters, based on conventional wireline logs, with an average porosity of 17%. Fluid samples acquired during logging activities indicate the presence of light oil/gas condensate as reservoir fluid.

Deep Omicron

The well has intersected a log evaluated hydrocarbon interval that is interpreted to comprise high quality thinly interbedded reservoir units. Although less well developed at this location and with a corresponding lower net to gross ratio than the Sapele-1 motherbore, the provisional net pay is conservatively estimated to be approximately 10 meters, based on conventional wireline logs, with an average porosity of 19%. In addition, initial interpretation indicates that certain pay intervals identified in the original Sapele-1 well have been eroded at the Sapele-1ST location. It was not possible to recover, it is believed due to borehole conditions, reservoir fluid samples and pressure data from Deep Omicron. Consequently, pressure communication could not be confirmed from logging activities. The GC tracer however indicates the presence of a light high GOR oil.

Forward plan

Further detailed analysis, including test data, is now required to assess the implications of the Sapele-1ST well on current resource estimates. The impending Sapele-2 appraisal well results will also be integral to this process. The Company is now preparing to conduct a drill stem testing program at Sapele-1ST. Following testing the intention is to release the Noble Tommy Craighead rig for a mandatory recertification process.

Due to the stratigraphic nature of the Omicron discoveries further appraisal will be required and is already underway and planned. The Sapele-2 well, intended to appraise both the Lower and Deep Omicron discoveries, is currently drilling with the Vantage Sapphire Driller rig and is expected to take a further 15 to 20 days (excluding testing). The rig is available for up to three well slots after Sapele-2 with the location selection process factoring in both ongoing technical evaluation and well results.

Kevin Hart, Chief Executive of Bowleven plc, commented, "We are pleased with the results so far on Sapele-1ST (sidetrack). The initial log evaluation is encouraging as it endorses the presence of light oil and gas condensate in the Lower and Deep Omicron fairways encountered with the original Sapele-1 well. Preparations are now underway for a testing program at Sapele-1ST to assess connectivity and deliverability. Given their stratigraphic nature, further evaluation, including appraisal drilling, is required to fully understand sand distribution within these tertiary fairways however results to date are promising in the context of Sapele and the Douala Basin as a whole."