Cobalt hits at North Platte appraisal

Houston’s Cobalt International Energy encountered “encouraging” results at its North Platte #4 appraisal well in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico, and is preparing for a geologic sidetrack for further analyzation.

Image of the Rowan Reliance, from Cobalt.

Cobalt said that the preliminary results are encouraging and indicate that the well encountered approximately 650ft of net oil pay, which is greater than the approximately 550ft of net pay found in the North Platte #3 appraisal well.

The well is being drilled with the Rowan Reliance ultra deepwater drillship.

The North Platte #4 initial appraisal results also indicate high quality Inboard Lower Tertiary Wilcox reservoirs on the eastern flank of the North Platte field, the company said.

The Houston-based independent is now working on evaluating log data, fluid samples and pressure information and is preparing for a geologic sidetrack to further analyze the extent of the eastern flank of the field. The geologic sidetrack is expected to be completed in Q1 2017. 

“This well result is an important milestone in the appraisal of the full potential of the North Platte field. The confirmation of high quality reservoir on the large eastern flank of the field is encouraging,” Timothy J. Cutt, Cobalt CEO said.

According to the company’s Q2 2016 report, first production at North Platte is anticipated in 2021. Cobalt also said in its Q2 2016 report that following drilling at North Platte, it may terminate the contract for the Rowan Reliance early.

Cobalt is the operator of North Platte and owns a 60% working interest. Partner Total E&P owns the remaining 40%.

In August, Cobalt announced its plans to focus on Angola, making it its number one priority; and putting its GoM projects on the backburner.

Read more:

Cobalt focuses on Angola, closes Mexico office

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