Algeria’s state-owned Sonatrach has granted Eni SPA three prospection permits, authorizing Eni, as operator, and Sonatrach to carry out prospection activities in the Timimoun and Oued Mya basins of southern Algeria.
The El Guefoul, Tinerkouk, and Terfas permits—issued by the National Agency for the Promotion of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT)—are valid for 2 years and cover a total area of 46,837 sq km.
The work program includes studies and drilling of prospection wells to define the potential of the areas. Eni says the three areas are considered of great interest and potential.
This partnership between Eni and Sonatrach continues a relationship in which the companies have, among other activities, previously pledged to develop unconventional hydrocarbon resources “with particular focus on shale gas,” and produced rich natural gas from Menzel Ledjmet East (MLE) field on Algerian Block 405b (OGJ Online, May 4, 2011; Feb. 4, 2013).
Eni has been present in Algeria since 1981 and has interests in 29 exploration and development licenses, which are currently in production, and in three permits under development. Eni’s equity production in Algeria totals 125,000 boe/d.