DNO has kicked off an exploration well at its Gomez prospect on PL006C license offshore Norway. The probe will be drilled to a depth of around 3300 m below sea level, targeting Paleocene-age formations.
DNO Norge AS holds a 65% operated interest in the license; Aker BP holds the balance. Aker BP originally had a 15% interest but recently acquired another 20% interest in PL006C from DNO under a swap agreement in which DNO picked up a 25% participating interest in PL1085 (Tanumåsen) and increased its share from 20 to 30% in PL906 (Mugnetind). The swap, pending government approval, will diversify Aker’s position in the southern North Sea.
The Gomez well is being drilled using the Borgland Dolphin. The well is expected to take 45 days. Pre-drill reserve estimates range from 26 to 80 million BOE. The well is close to existing infrastructure, including the Tor and Ekofisk complexes.
The Gomez well is one of three exploration wells scheduled this year. The first, Røver Nord (DNO 20%), resulted in what is likely a commercial discovery. Following Gomez, Mugnetind is expected to spud in Q4 2021.