By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Sept. 2 -- Calgary-based Calvalley Petroleum Inc. reported significant initial results of the Al Roidhat-1 exploration well on Block 9, which it operates in Yemen. Four oil-bearing reservoirs have been discovered on Block 9 to date.
Al Roidhat-1, the third in a four-well exploration program, was drilled and cased to 1,159 m TD and intersected oil-bearing Qishn sands at 1,025 m. Three Qishn sand layers bearing oil were encountered, the first containing 11 m of net oil column, the second layer 20 m, and the third layer 6 m.
Qishn formations, which are highly porous and permeable reservoirs, are the primary target of wells in central and eastern Yemen. Similar Qishn formations in Sayun-Masila basin produce at 5,000-15,000 b/d from a single well, Calvalley said. Based on seismic interpretation, Al-Roidhat field extends over an 8 sq km area.
Schlumberger Ltd. will carry out necessary testing during the next 30 days, Calvalley said.
Al Roidhat-1 is the first of a two-well drilling program to test Qishn structures delineated by Calvalley's 2001 seismic program. The drilling rig moved to the second location—an independent structure 8 km northeast of Al Roidhat 1—to spud the second well Aug. 25.
Calvalley holds a 60% working interest in Block 9. Its unnamed partner, which holds the remaining 40%, put up $10 million to cover the drilling of the four wells. (OGJ Online, Nov. 21, 2001).