Lukoil completes exploration well offshore Ivory Coast

April 2, 2014
Lukoil Overseas has completed drilling an exploration well on Block CI-101 offshore Ivory Coast.

Lukoil Overseas has completed drilling an exploration well on Block CI-101 offshore Ivory Coast.

The Capitaine East-1x well penetrated through 140 m of sandstone from a Turonian formation, Lukoil reported. The survey confirmed the presence of hydrocarbons, indicating the oil potential of the area.

The well target depth is more than 5,200 m, while the water depth at the well location is more than 2,000 m. Drilling was conducted using the Eirik Raude, a fifth generation self-propelled semisubmersible drilling rig.

Lukoil completed drilling an appraisal well during the end of 2013 at Independence field, which is northeast of Block CI-101. A survey is in progress to determine the block’s resource potential. The company said a proposal to drill another appraisal well at the field will be considered soon.

Lukoil, the project’s operator, entered a production-sharing agreement for the exploration, appraisal, development, and production of hydrocarbons on Blocks CI-101 and CI-401 in 2006 (OGJ Online, Oct. 15, 2010; Dec. 8, 2011). Lukoil holds 56.66% interest, PanAtlantic (formerly Vanco Energy Co.), 28.34%, and Petroci Holding, 15%.