Shell encouraged by positive oil well test results in Albania

Royal Dutch Shell and Petromanas Energy Inc. announced on 04 November positive test results from the Shpirag-2 well in Block 2-3, which covers an area of 3,450 square kilometres onshore south-central Albania.

The well was drilled by the operator, Petromanas, to a total depth of 5,553m. Based on the previously drilled Shpirag-1 and test results from Shpirag-2, Petromanas and Shell believe they have identified in excess of 800m of oil column in fractured carbonate reservoirs, providing early validation of the light oil potential of the block.

Edwin Verdonk, Shell Vice President Exploration Europe said “The results of the Sphirag-2 well are encouraging for the joint venture and support the potential of this oil play in Albania. We look forward to appraisal efforts next year to help us fully assess the volumes and production potential of this reservoir.”

During a 3 day extended test period the well flowed at rates of 800 to 1300bbl per day of 35 – 37 degree API oil.

“These test results initially confirm the well’s ability to flow light oil and provide early validation of the potential of Block 2-3 and our considerable investment to date in this asset,” said Glenn McNamara, CEO of Petromanas. “Given carbonate reservoirs are dependent on fracture porosity, and well rates can vary significantly across the reservoir, we are very encouraged to have flowing oil at these rates from our first well.”

A 450km 2D seismic programme for Block 2-3 is in progress and is expected to conclude before the end of the year. The first appraisal well is planned after completion of a second exploration well which is currently drilling.

Petromanas has a 25% working interest in Block 2-3 and is the operator, with Shell having the remaining 75% working interest. The joint venture was established in February 2012, and completion of the Shpirag-2 well is an important milestone in the multi-year exploration programme.

energjia.al, 06.11.2013