Exploration

Geotrace has completed of one of the world’s largest onboard data processing projects for BP’s Sirt Basin concession off the coast of Libya.

Devon Energy Corp. has announced a pre-salt oil discovery in the Campos Basin, offshore Brazil. This initial exploratory well was drilled to a total depth of 16 240 ft and encountered approximately 240 ft of oil column.

Shell have been awarded a technical co-operation permit for a one-year study to investigate the hydrocarbon potential in parts of central South Africa.

Total has announced the discovery of hydrocarbons in the southern portion of the Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 223, offshore Southeastern Nigeria.

Chevron Corp. has announced an additional natural gas discovery in the Carnarvon Basin offshore Western Australia.

Major downstream investments have been announced by Petrolera Argentina, Husky Energy and Ecopetrol.

Exxon Mobil makes agreement with XTO Energy to enhance its position in the development of unconventional gas and oil resources.

The US EPA issued a statement on 7th December that confirms the findings of its investigations into greenhouse gases and human health.

BJ Services Co. have set a world record for cementing the longest solid expandable tubular liner; a specially formulated cement had to be developed to accomplish the feat.

The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE) have made an agreement to formally work together for the mutual benefit of both societies.

Otto Energy Ltd has announced that it will commence a 3D seismic data acquisition programme in SC55. The company plans to acquire 590 square kilometres of 3D data in the southwest part of SC55, which is located in Palawan Basin, Philippines.

BP is ranked 1st under ‘alternative energies’ and ‘environmental transparency’ categories of a new study on the most environmentally sustainable large O&G companies.

Essar Group and ONGC Videsh have announced new investments in two African refineries.

Polarcus Ltd recently held a double naming ceremony for the modern, purpose built 3D seismic vessels Polarcus Nadia and Polarcus Naila. The ceremony, at the Drydocks World – Dubai shipyard in the United Arab Emirates, was attended by over 200 local and international guests.

This article provides an overview of the North African hydrocarbon industry, assesses its vital regions and considers a future of promise to coincide with the global economic recovery.