AIM-listed Rockhopper Exploration is to carry out an extended test drill in the Isobel/ Elaine fields in the Falkland Islands.
The re-drill well will target the Isobel Deep reservoir which was oil bearing in well 14/20-1, but could not be logged or sampled for mechanical reasons.
This new well will be drilled a suitable distance (approximately 4km) from the original well bore and is also expected to encounter additional reservoir targets in the Elaine South and Isobel Shallow Fans.
This well will replace the Jayne East well in the current drilling campaign (subject to the final regulatory approvals).
As part of the agreement, Rockhopper has reached agreement with Falkland Oil & Gas Limited on compensation for not drilling the Jayne East well. Under the agreement, Rockhopper will pay Falkland Oil and Gas $4 million ($2 million immediately with the balance expected to be paid later in 2016).
The rig, which is currently drilling to the south of the Falkland Islands, is expected to return to the North Falkland Basin in mid to late October 2015.
Sam Moody, Chief Executive, Rockhopper, commented: “The Isobel Deep well drilled in May significantly de-risked the Isobel/Elaine fan complex which represents a new play in a previously underexplored part of the North Falkland Basin.”
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