The agency approved the multi-well project following review of the Environmental Impact Statement and Environmental Impact Assessment of the Cumulative Effects related to the project. The EPA “is satisfied that the project can be conducted in accordance with good environmental practices, and in a manner that avoids, prevents and minimizes any adverse effects which could result from the activity,” it noted in a statement July 2.
Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. (EEPGL), an ExxonMobil affiliate and operator of the block, plans to further explore and appraise the block’s hydrocarbon reserves.
The project scope includes 35 exploration and appraisal wells. Exact locations have not been finalized. Work is currently scheduled from third-quarter 2023 through 2028.
If discoveries are found, subsequent wells could be drilled to further assess potential commerciality. Thus, priorities and schedules could change, and EEPGL will continue to submit necessary well information to obtain operations permit approval from the EPA prior to the respective spud dates.
For the analysis, EEPGL noted use of two full-time drill ships working concurrently on project development wells. Additional drill ships may be used to accelerate the drilling schedule, as allowed by simultaneous operations.
EEPGL is operator of the block with 45% interest. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30% interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Ltd. holds 25% interest.