ExxonMobil set for next-phase deepwater Black Sea drilling

June 28, 2013
OMV Petrom has completed acquisition of a 3D seismic survey over the Neptun Deep block offshore Romania.

Offshore staff

BUCHAREST, Romania – OMV Petrom has completed acquisition of a 3D seismic survey over the Neptun Deep block offshore Romania. This was the largest 3D survey ever recorded in the Black Sea, the company said, covering more than 6,000 sq km (2,316 sq mi).

The company and partner ExxonMobil have secured the Diamond Offshore semisubmersibleOcean Endeavor to resume exploration drilling on the block at the end of 2013 or early 2014. Ocean Endeavor can drill in water depths up to 2,400 m (7,874 ft) and to a total drilling depth of 10,600 m (34,777 ft). ExxonMobil operates the drilling program for the deepwater section of the Neptun block.

Data from the seismic and drilling campaigns will help assess the size and commerciality of the 2012 Domino discovery, and other potential prospects in Neptun Deep.

Total costs for the exploration program, including appraisal drilling, could reach $1 billion.

Johann Pleininger, member of the OMV Petrom executive board, responsible for exploration and production, said: “Further investments during appraisal and development phases could reach several billion dollars and such investments would have a major impact on the Romanian economy.”

6/28/2013