Deltic boosts gas volumes estimate for North Sea prospect

Deltic Energy, formerly known as Cluff Natural Resources, has significantly boosted gas volumes and decreased risk profile at the Selene prospect located in the UK North Sea.

The Selene prospect is located in P2437 license in the Southern North Sea.

Deltic revealed in June that, together with its partner Shell, it had remained committed to drilling the Selene prospect despite the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the market.

While the Selene well remained in plans, it was postponed and slated to be drilled in 2022.

Deltic said on Tuesday that there had been a material increase in the estimated volume of gas compared to previous estimates as well as a significant increase in the chance of success in relation to the Selene prospect.

According to Deltic, this process has comprised a considerable amount of work in relation to the existing reprocessed 3D seismic and utilised an innovative technological approach to depth conversion which was undertaken by a joint Deltic-Shell team.

Further work on the depositional environment, structural history, gas charge timing and reservoir quality prediction was also completed as part of this process.

Results from this technical analysis indicate that the Gas Initially In Place (GIIP) volumes associated with the preferred Selene interpretation have been significantly increased and further potential upside has also been recognised in the in-place resource calculations while at the same time the geological chance of success (GCoS) has also been significantly improved.

Further work will focus on potential development scenarios, estimation of recovery factors, and project economics which are required to support the well investment decision prior to the proposed 2022 drilling activity.

Graham Swindells, CEO of Deltic, commented: “The significantly increased gas volumes and decreased risk profile further cements the importance of Selene as one of the largest undrilled Leman Sandstone structures in this mature play.

“We are encouraged by the level of technical and human resources being deployed on this project by Shell and will continue to work with them towards securing a firm drilling commitment for the proposed 2022 well on Selene”.