Iraq: DNO updates Kurdistan drilling activity

Norwegian company DNO has provided an update on its drilling activity in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

Kurdistan - Tawke PSC:

Peshkabir-1 exploration well

The objectives of the Peshkabir-1 exploration are to test the hydrocarbon potential in the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic intervals. Following the installation of the 9 5/8 casing point at the top of the Cretaceous interval a damaged section of the casing was identified some 140 meters above the casing shoe. The damaged section was repaired and drilling re-commenced. Oil shows have been observed while drilling the top section of the Cretaceous interval, and core samples are in the process of being collected. Contingent upon observations from the coring results, an open-hole test will be considered before drilling re-commences.

Tawke-16 appraisal well

The main objective for the Tawke-16 appraisal well is to test additional resource potential within the northern flank of the Tawke field. The drilling is progressing according to plan, and it is expected that the well will reach the main target within the next few weeks.

Tawke-Deep exploration well

Drilling of the Tawke-Deep exploration well has now been approved by the partners. The main objectives of the well are to test the resource potential of the Jurassic and Triassic intervals within the Tawke area. Expected spud of this well is in the third quarter of 2012.

Kurdistan - Dohuk PSC:

Summail-1 oil and gas discovery

As previously reported results from the testing operations undertaken in Summail-1 confirm the presence of heavy crude oil in the Jurassic interval and natural gas in the Cretaceous interval. The oil and gas discoveries in Summail-1 will be further evaluated, and as part of this work a 3D seismic acquisition across the entire Summail structure will be undertaken during the next few months. The Summail-1 well was suspended for possible re-entry and further testing at a later stage.

Kurdistan – Erbil PSC:

Bastora-1A test production

Test production from the Bastora-1A horizontal well has continued at 800-900 barrels of oil / water per day from natural flow. Installation of a down-hole pump has been postponed in order to acquire more information from the well under natural flow. The oil constitutes around 50% of the gross fluid production, and the produced crude oil has continued to be delivered to the local market. However, as result of the low temperature at the well location, there has been no lifting of crude oil during the past week. The Bastora and Benenan development plans were submitted to the KRG in December, and approval is expected before the end of February.

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Source: DNO