Analysis following logging and testing of the El Salmiyah-5 development well in the Abu Sennan concession in Egypt's Western Desert suggests that the well significantly exceeds pre-drill estimates, partner United Oil & Gas (UOG) reported.
Spudded Feb. 3, the well reached total depth of 4,400 m MD (3,911 m TVDSS) on Apr. 17. After logging, testing, and completion, the rig was released on May 21.
The well targeted previously undrained reservoirs of the El Salmiyah field, with primary focus on the Kharita formation and secondary objectives in Abu Roash C and Abu Roash E. Net pay, encountered in all targeted intervals, totaled more than 120 m, exceeding pre-drill expectations.
The main Kharita target interval was encountered some 16 m shallow to expectations, indicating larger than expected undrained area updip of existing wells in the field. This was further supported by an encouraging flow test which achieved rates of 4,100 bo/d, with a further 18 MMscf/d gas (8,700 boe/d in total).
Although the well may initially be brought onstream close to the test rate, longer-term, UOG expects to choke it back for sustainable production through existing facilities.
UOG holds a 22% working interest in the Abu Sennan concession gained through its acquisition of Rockhopper Egypt Pty earlier this year (OGJ Online, July 23, 2019). The Abu Sennan concession comprises seven development concessions, each containing a producing field, as well as a 644 sq km exploration license. The license is operated by Kuwait Energy Egypt (25%), with Global Connect Ltd (25%) and Dover Investments (28%) the other partners in the joint venture.