Krum well offshore Bulgaria delivers second successive dry hole for Han Asparuh partners

The latest Black Sea exploration news centers on mixed signals for regional gas prospects, with OMV Petrom reporting another dry hole offshore Bulgaria while pressing ahead with new acreage and future drilling plans.

This roundup also includes updates on exploration timelines in Romania’s Neptun Block and Trillion Energy’s efforts to divest a non‑operated stake in a Turkish Black Sea gas development.

Non-significant signs of natural gas discovered at Krum

The Noble Globetrotter I deepwater drillship has completed the Krum‑1 exploration well for OMV Petrom and its partners in the Han Asparuh Block offshore Bulgaria.

Co-venturer NewMed Energy said the well had encountered non-significant signs of gas in the targeted layers and was therefore deemed a dry hole.

Drilling started in February, shortly after completion of the Vinekh well (also dry), reaching the planned depth of about 3,500 m.

OMV Petrom said data from the two-well campaign would nevertheless help further the geological understanding in the region. 

Board member Cristian Hubati added, “We remain committed to our exploration strategy and continue to pursue opportunities in the Bulgarian offshore, recognizing the significant potential of the Black Sea basin.”

OMV Petrom enters exploration consortium for Han Tervel  Block

Last month, the company agreed to farm into 25% of the Han Tervel offshore exploration block to the south in the Bulgarian sector, subject to regulatory approval.

Shell operates with a 42% interest, in partnership with Turkish Petroleum Overseas Co.

The exploration license for Han Tervel, located south of OMV Petrom’s Han Asparuh Block, was awarded last year with an initial five-year term. The concession spans a 4,000-sq-km area.

Initial plans include acquisition and detailed analysis of 3D seismic data. Depending on the results, the partners will assess the potential for subsequent exploration drilling.

OMV Petrom will contribute to project costs and investments proportional to its 25% stake, covering both historical and future operational expenses.

Prolongation of exploration phase for Neptun Block

In the Romanian sector of the Black Sea to the north, the company has made plans to drill the Anaconda-1 exploration well on the Neptun Block, following completion of development drilling for the Neptun Deep gas project.

Trillion Energy seeking buyers for its 49% SASB interest

Trillion Energy International is looking to sell its 49% stake in the South Akcakoca Sub-Basin (SASB) gas development in the Turkish sector of the Black Sea.

The interest is held via Trillion’s Cayman Islands-based subsidiary Park Place Energy. The Turkish Petroleum Corp. (TPAO) operates the SASB project with a 51% share.