Doris Leblond
OGJ Correspondent
PARIS, July 14 -- Gaz de France has agreed to study the feasibility of an LNG project in Mauritania based on deepwater gas discoveries of recent years.
GDF late last year signed an agreement to farm in to three blocks operated by Dana Petroleum (E&P) Ltd. Subject to regulatory approvals, it will take a 24% share in Block 1, 85% in Block 7, and 17.5% in Block 8.
On Block 7, the Pelican discovery has indicated greater gas potential in the area (OGJ, Jan. 19, 2004, Newsletter). An exploration well will be drilled at the end of September on a new prospect to be selected. On Block 1, Dana encountered hydrocarbons in its Faucon 1 wildcat and plans more seismic work (OGJ, Dec. 12, 2005, Newsletter).
GDF Chief Executive Jean-François Cirelli signed an agreement with Mauritanian Energy and Oil Minister Mohamed Ali Ould Sidi Mohamed on gas cooperation.
Gaz de France will study the feasibility of an LNG project in Mauritania. The protocol also covers development of gas-powered electricity in Mauritania and a plan to train Mauritanians.