Namibia: Walvis blocks extended, 3D complete

July 21, 2011
Acquisition of a 3D seismic survey on blocks 2112B and 2212A off Namibia in the Walvis basin is complete, said HRT Participacoes em Petroleo SA, Rio de Janeiro.

By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, July 21
– Acquisition of a 3D seismic survey on blocks 2112B and 2212A off Namibia in the Walvis basin is complete, said HRT Participacoes em Petroleo SA, Rio de Janeiro.

This program will enable an in-depth view of rift and drift sequences, which is critical to advance exploration and leads to the drilling stage, HRT said.

The 5,278 sq km program by the Polarcus Naila vessel has considerably exceeded the minimum work program commitment to acquire 200 sq km of 3D seismic prior to June 2013 on the blocks, in which HRT has 100% exploratory interest. The program is the largest ever undertaken off Namibia and covers more than 45% of the licensed area.

The Ministry of Mines and Energy has now extended the first exploration period on the blocks to 5 years from 3, which means Petroleum Exploration License No. 0023 now ends on June 6, 2013, with all work program requirements satisfied.

The contiguous blocks cover 2.86 million acres in 300-1,400 m of water west of Walvis Bay.