Serica Energy delays startup of Columbus field

Serica Energy PLC will delay start-up of Columbus gas condensate field in the UK Central North Sea but still expects first production in this year’s fourth quarter.

Columbus hydrocarbons will flow into the Arran subsea system before processing on the Shell-operated Shearwater platform, 35 km southwest of the field. Shearwater is currently operating at restricted capacity, which will delay Columbus.

When the production reaches the Shearwater platform, gas and liquids will be separated, and gas exported via the SEGAL line to St Fergus. Liquids will be exported through the Forties Pipeline System to Cruden Bay (OGJ Online, Mar. 17, 2021).

Expected average gross production is 7,000 boe/d (70% gas). Columbus gross undeveloped 2P reserves is estimated at more than 14 MMboe. As a result of the delay, Serica’s full year net production is expected to be slightly lower than the current guidance of 23,000-25,000 boe/d.

Serica is operator (50%) with partners Waldorf Production UK Ltd. (25%) and Tailwind Mistral Ltd. (25%).