CNOOC’s Congo Drilling Hits Snag on Drillship Issues

CNOOC's Congo Drilling Hits Snag on Drillship Issues

China National Offshore Oil Company, which recently spudded its first well offshore the Republic of Congo, has already encountered problems with its operations in the West African country.

According to the owner of the drillship used for the operation, the vessel is now “undergoing repairs caused by an unplanned event which resulted in damage to the Top Drive and other related equipment.”

The drillship, called the “Jasper Explorer”, is expected to drill two firm wells, under the contract with the Chinese oil company.

The owner of the drillship, Jasper Investments, said that repairs should take a month to be completed.

“The direct cost of the repairs will be insignificant compared to the value of the drilling contract,” Jasper Investments said in a release.

The value of the drilling contract with CNOOC is approximately $33 million.

[mappress]

Offshore Energy Today Staff, May 30, 2013