Dana Starts Drilling in Moray Firth (UK)

Aberdeen-based Dana Petroleum has commenced drilling operations in the Moray Firth area of the North Sea close to the Captain field.

Dana is drilling an operated well targeting the Magnolia prospect in block 13/23a, which comprises early Cretaceous sandstones.

Dana’s UK Managing Director Paul Griffin said: “Magnolia is a significant milestone in Dana’s UK exploration programme for 2013. It will also help us gain valuable experience working with the Ocean Nomad.”

The company is using the Ocean Nomad drilling rig, managed by Senergy, which will also be used for development drilling on the company’s $1.6bn Western Isles project later in 2013.

Matt Rothnie, wells manager at Senergy, said: “We are pleased to be involved with this exciting development, building upon our long standing relationship with Dana Petroleum.”

The well is the second the company has drilled in the North Sea this year and is planned to reach total depth in four weeks. Dana’s partners are Summit Petroleum Ltd (25%), Trap Oil (10%) and Atlantic Petroleum (20%).

[mappress]
Press Release, February 28, 2013