TGS has completed the reprocessing of seismic data for Angola’s Block 16, aiming to reignite exploration interest. This project, in collaboration with ANPG, has enhanced imaging capabilities and identified new oil discoveries in previously underexplored areas. The findings highlight potential for significant future oil recovery across Block 16 and contribute to the broader resurgence in West African oil exploration.
Norwegian seismic company TGS has concluded the reprocessing of data intended to generate renewed interest in Angola’s less explored deepwater Block 16. This initiative involved collaboration with the Agência Nacional de Petróleo, Gás e Biocombustíveis (ANPG) on the Block 16 GeoStreamer MC3D seismic dataset located within the Lower Congo Basin. TGS reports a resurgence in exploration activities in this region, marked by notable discoveries that are being rapidly developed.
The extensive 3,684-square-kilometer rejuvenation project utilizes modern depth processing techniques to produce enhanced imaging, facilitating the detailed assessment of deeper target plays in both post-salt and pre-salt sections. Despite being underexplored since the early 2010s, with the last well drilled in 2013, the recent dataset has revealed significant oil discoveries in Block 16, previously known limited to early Upper Miocene finds.
Recent evaluations in the Lower Congo Basin have identified oil recovery from Upper Miocene reservoirs in the southern survey area. This analysis also covers the marginal Tchihumba field, which contains hydrocarbon zones and is estimated to have approximately 136 million barrels of recoverable volume. Additionally, the Lumpembe-1 oil discovery within Block 15/06, drilled in 2023, falls under the survey’s scope and is currently under development studies.
David Hajovsky, TGS’s Executive Vice President of Multi-Client, expressed satisfaction with their contribution to regional exploration through high-quality seismic data. He noted that the identified accumulations and proximity to neighboring significant discoveries present compelling prospects for future exploration successes.
Moreover, TGS has engaged in further seismic projects in West Africa, including enhancing the Fusion 3D seismic dataset offshore Sierra Leone, specifically aimed at the Vega prospect. The recent oil discoveries in South America have notably heightened interest in exploring this region, positioning Sierra Leone as a promising frontier for development. TGS’s agreement with Mauritania’s government to enhance datasets consolidates its role as the exclusive provider of multi-client subsurface data in the nation.
In summary, TGS’s reprocessing work on Block 16’s seismic data signifies a pivotal moment for Angola’s oil exploration sector, reviving interest in previously underexplored formations. Recent evaluations within this area have unveiled promising discoveries, contributing to a broader trend of increased activity and interest in West African oil sectors. TGS remains committed to supporting exploration efforts, enhancing the potential for future developments.
Original Source: oilreviewafrica.com
