The Eni operated Rowallan exploration well 22/19c-G in the Central North Sea has been spudded by the heavy duty jack-up rig Ensco 121.
The news was announced Monday by Eni's project partner Serica Energy, who holds a 15 percent stake in the well. Other partners include JX Nippon Exploration and Production (U.K.) Limited and Mitsui.
The well is targeting the high-pressure, high-temperature gas condensate Rowallan prospect, which comprises a significant structural fault and dipclosed trap in the east of Block 22/19c.
The well is designed to penetrate high-quality sandstones at both Middle Jurassic and Triassic levels, which are situated for hydrocarbon charge from the direction of the nearby Monan and Mungo oil fields.
In the event of success, there is additional upside potential provided by the nearby Dundonald and Sundrum prospects, which are geologically similar to Rowallan, Serica said. The Rowallan prospect may also extend onto Serica’s recently awarded 30th Round blocks directly to the south.
Serica added it is fully carried for the exploration well, which is expected to take around 140 days to drill.