Offshore staff

US, GoM -- BP expects to achieve first production from its Thunder Horse project in early 2007.

According to the operator, offshore repair work on theThunder Horse semi continues, including testing of its subsea equipment in preparation for start-up.

However, during a routine hydrotest, says BP, two leaks were found in a subsea manifold, pushing back the targeted first production date. The damaged subsea equipment will be replaced.

The company adds that it is taking a precautionary approach and is fully investigating the events before starting up the platform. BP anticipates it will receive regulatory approval to introduce hydrocarbons to the facilities in the third quarter.

07/27/06