Shell, Apache sign exploration deals

Feb. 8, 2005
Apache North Sea Ltd. will drill as many as four exploratory wells in the central North Sea under several farmouts from Shell UK Ltd.

By OGJ editors

HOUSTON, Feb. 8 -- Apache North Sea Ltd. will drill as many as four exploratory wells in the central North Sea under several farmouts from Shell UK Ltd.

Apache will become operator of Blocks 22/6a, 22/7, and 22/12, on each of which it plans to drill a wildcat. A fourth well is possible on Block 22/11.

Shell and Esso Exploration & Production UK Ltd. hold a 50-50 interest in Block 22/6a. Shell holds a majority interest in Blocks 22/7, 22/11, and 22/12a, all of which it acquired when it bought Enterprise Oil in 2002.

Apache is expected to drill two exploration wells in the first quarter of 2005.