Drilling Planned for Ex PEL 91: A New Frontier in Offshore Namibia

Offshore Namibia is set to become a hotspot for exploration and appraisal drilling, with TotalEnergies and its partners planning a multi-well drilling program in Block 2912 (PEL 91). This block, adjacent to the Venus discovery in Block 2913B (PEL 56), holds significant potential for the extension of the Venus field and the discovery of new hydrocarbon reserves. The planned drilling campaign aims to further evaluate the Venus reservoir and explore the potential westerly extension of the field into Block 2912.



Block 2912, covering approximately 7,884 sq km in water depths between 3,000-3,900 m, is an attractive target for exploration and appraisal drilling due to its geological and geophysical characteristics. The block is believed to contain a highly material westerly extension of the Venus field, which has already been proven to be a world-class light oil and associated gas field in Block 2913B. Operations by TotalEnergies during 2023 are designed to explore and, if successful, test this potential extension of the Venus accumulation into Block 2912 and provide an understanding of the structure and reservoir quality.

The drilling program will commence mid-2023, with exploration well Nara-1X to be drilled and flow tested by the Tungsten Explorer drillship. If successful, appraisal well Nara-1A will then be drilled and flow tested. This program aims to explore and test the potential extension of the Venus accumulation into Block 2912 and provide an understanding of the structure and reservoir quality, which could lead to the discovery of new hydrocarbon reserves.

TotalEnergies, as the operator of PEL 91 (37.78%), is joined by partners Impact (18.89%), QatarEnergy (28.33%), and NAMCOR (15%). This strong partnership brings together significant deep-water drilling expertise and resources, increasing the likelihood of successful exploration and appraisal drilling.

However, drilling operations in Block 2912 present several challenges, including the deepwater environment, geological uncertainty, regulatory and environmental risks, and technical risks. To mitigate these risks, TotalEnergies and its partners should utilize advanced drilling technologies and equipment designed for deepwater environments, conduct thorough geological and geophysical studies, ensure compliance with relevant regulations and environmental standards, and implement robust well control procedures and emergency response plans.

In conclusion, the planned drilling campaign in Block 2912 (PEL 91) represents a significant opportunity for TotalEnergies and its partners to explore and appraise the potential extension of the Venus field and discover new hydrocarbon reserves. By addressing the challenges and risks associated with drilling operations in this deepwater environment, the joint venture partners can increase the likelihood of a successful exploration and appraisal campaign, potentially leading to the development of two fully appraised early production centers, one on Block 2913B and the second on Block 2912.