APT to begin seismic work in Ruvuma PSA, Tanzania

ARA Petroleum Tanzania Ltd (APT) and joint partners in the Ruvuma PSA will begin a seismic and drilling program to develop the Ntorya gas discovery within the licence.

 

Ruvuma PSA consists of two blocks, Mtwara and Lindi, and is spread over an area of 6,079 sq km. About 80% of the area is onshore, while the remaining 20% is offshore.

 

The joint venture has agreed to a work programme and budget to acquire a 400 sq km full fold (454 sq km surface footprint) 3D survey in second and third quarter of 2021 to align with the next available operational weather window in Tanzania.

 

Currently, the seismic database contains 2D lines of varying vintages and quality. Modern 3D – to be acquired through vibroseis and explosive sources to take account of surface topography and minimize impact on the local community – is expected to improve subsurface imaging ahead of full field development.

 

APT will start contracting and procurement of services for Chikumbi-1 well (CH-1) and will secure long lead items (LLIs) including the well head and rig. The joint venture will look at early mobilisation of the rig to Tanzania to mitigate against one of the key uncertainties on the timeline to spud.

 

Drilling preparation activity will commence in early 2021, including civil works for the well pad in preparation for arrival of the rig, securing LLIs and deployment of services to Tanzania in anticipation of spud, currently scheduled for January 2022.

 

The joint venture now intends to submit a revised gross budget of US$22.8 million to the Tanzanian authorities.

 

Source: Oil & Gas Journal