By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, June 11 -- BP PLC and Noble Energy Inc. hit hydrocarbon pay with their Isabela prospect about 150 miles southeast of New Orleans in the Gulf of Mexico. Isabela lies on Mississippi Canyon Block 562 in 6,500 ft of water and was drilled to 19,100 ft TD. The discovery found "hydrocarbons in two high-quality reservoirs," Noble said.
The well, which was spud on Feb. 28, has been temporarily suspended pending development plans. The most likely development scenario, says Noble, is a subsea tieback to nearby Na Kika production facility, operated by BP.
Chuck Davidson, Noble Energy chairman, president, and chief executive officer, said Isabela could add production as early as late 2009. Noble also has acquired an interest in adjacent acreage with additional exploration potential.
BP operates Isabela with a 66.67% working interest, while Noble holds 33.33%.
