By an OGJ correspondent
BANGKOK, Nov. 13 -- A consortium comprising Murphy Oil Corp. (operator), Thailand's PTT Exploration & Production PLC (PTTEP); and Inpex Corp. of Japan was awarded offshore Block Semai II as part of the 2007 Indonesia petroleum bidding round. Each holds an equal share in the block.
The group signed a production-sharing contract Sept. 13 for the 3,379 sq km tract in the southwest of West Papua off Indonesia, where PTTEP said a primary geological study indicates natural gas potential.
During the first 3-year obligation period, the consortium will conduct 3D seismic survey and drill three exploration wells on the block, which lies in 100-1,500 m of water.
PTTEP reported that Semai-II is the third block it has in Indonesia, adding to its Merangin-1 and Bangara-1 blocks.
Inpex has been expanding its exploration and development activities in Indonesia by engaging in gas production in the offshore Mahakam contract area.
Inpex also is conducting exploration works as operator, holding a 100% participating interest, in the Masela area of the Arafura Sea, where substantial volumes of gas and condensate reserves have been confirmed through recent appraisal drillings.
