Statoil makes eighth discovery off Tanzania

March 30, 2015
Statoil ASA has discovered an additional 1.0-1.8 tcf of natural gas in Block 2 off Tanzania bringing the total in-place volumes to about 22 tcf. The new Mdalasini discovery is in 2,296 m of water at the southernmost end of the block.

Statoil ASA has discovered an additional 1.0-1.8 tcf of natural gas in Block 2 off Tanzania bringing the total in-place volumes to about 22 tcf. The new Mdalasini discovery is in 2,296 m of water at the southernmost end of the block.

Statoil drilled the Mdalasini exploration well with 100% working interest. Previously, Statoil and partner ExxonMobil Corp. made seven discoveries on Block 2: Zafarani-1, Lavani-1, Lavani-2, Tangawizi-1, Mronge-1, Piri-1, and Gilligiliani-1(OGJ Online, Oct. 14, 2014).

The Mdalasini-1 discovery marks the completion of the first phase of Statoil’s exploration program off Tanzania, said Nick Maden, senior vice-president of Staoil’s western hemisphere exploration. While the company continues to see prospectivity in the area, there will be a pause in drilling to evaluate next steps, he added.

Statoil operates the license on Block 2 on behalf of Tanzania Petroleum Development Corp. and has 65% working interest. ExxonMobil and Tanzania Ltd. hold the remaining 35%.