Shell asks for drilling deadline extension

The supermajor Shell has requested two additional weeks of drilling time from authorities after delays in obtaining permits have prevented the company from drilling so much as a foot in the Arctic this year.

According to a Shell spokesman, ice forecasts have indicated that there may be two additional weeks of clear seas when drilling operations would still be technically viable. This window of opportunity is one that could allow Shell to make up for lost time in the delay-ridden project.

The option of an extra two weeks drilling time are an opportunity that Shell will be keen to make use of if at all possible. Delays in offshore operations are always costly, but with the company having spent approximately US$ 4.5 billion on drilling rights, purchasing equipment and acquiring permits, the pressure is on for Shell to make drilling in the Arctic a profitable enterprise.

Edited from various sources by David Bizley

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