Neptune Energy began drilling operations on the Ofelia exploration well in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea. The well, 35/6-3 S, is being drilled by the Odfjell Drilling-operated semisubmersible Deepsea Yantai. The prospect is located 13 km north of the Gjøa field within the Neptune-operated PL929 License.
If commercial, Ofelia could be tied back to the Neptune-operated Gjøa platform and produce at less than half the average carbon intensity of Norwegian Continental Shelf fields, according to the company. Neptune said it could potentially be developed in parallel with Hamlet (PL153).
Ofelia is positioned in one of Neptune’s core areas and close to existing infrastructure. The reservoir target is the Lower Cretaceous Agat Formation and is expected to be reached at a depth of approximately 2570 m. The drilling program comprises a main bore (35/6-3 S) with an optional sidetrack (35/6-3 A) based on the outcome of the exploration well.
Neptune Energy operates Ofelia with a 40% working interest. Partners are Wintershall Dea (20%), Aker BP (10%), Pandion Energy (20%), and DNO (10%).