Tuna gas output starts in Egypt Nile Delta

By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, July 19 -- BP PLC and the Petrobel joint venture has started natural gas production from Tuna field in the Temsah concession in the Mediterranean off Egypt.

By September three wells are expected to produce a combined 4.5 million cu m/day from a four-leg platform in 80 m of water through 14 km of 24-in. pipeline. BP PLC and Eni SPA own 50% interest each. Eni owns its interest through International Egyptian Oil Co., which is equal owner of Petrobel with Egyptian General Petroleum Corp.

The concession is one of the most productive in the Nile Delta, Eni said. The companies are infill drilling in Temsah field and developing Denise B field, expected to begin producing in 2011. The concession has benefitted from improved contract terms since 2009.