TGS has completed reprocessing the seismic data for Angola’s Block 16, aiming to rejuvenate exploration in this previously neglected area. The new dataset enhances imaging capabilities, supporting evaluations of oil recovery potential in both the pre-salt and post-salt sections. Recently identified oil reservoirs and nearby discoveries strengthen the outlook for successful future drilling endeavors. TGS continues its commitment to West African exploration, enhancing datasets in Sierra Leone and Mauritania as well.
Norwegian seismic company TGS has recently completed the reprocessing of data designed to rekindle interest in Angola’s underexplored Block 16, situated in the Lower Congo Basin. Partnering with the Agência Nacional de Petróleo, Gás e Biocombustíveis (ANPG), TGS finalized the Block 16 GeoStreamer MC3D seismic dataset, which integrates modern depth processing techniques to enhance imaging beyond prior data, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of both post-salt and pre-salt targets.
Since 2013, exploration in Block 16 had been minimal, with the last well drilled that year; past discoveries primarily included the Bengo and Longa oil fields from the 1990s. However, recent assessments have revealed oil production potential in the southern region of Block 16 from Upper Miocene reservoirs, contributing to a growing understanding of the area. This survey also offers partial coverage of the Tchihumba field, unveiled in 2003, which has estimated recoverable reserves of about 136 million barrels across various geological formations.
The recent Lumpembe-1 discovery on Block 15/06, drilled in 2023 and currently in development, is included within the surveying area, indicating the region’s evolving potential. David Hajovsky, TGS’s executive vice president multi-client, remarked on their commitment to bolster exploration efforts through high-quality seismic data, implying that neighboring significant discoveries enhance the likelihood of successful new explorations.
Other notable projects by TGS in West Africa include enhancements of the Fusion 3D seismic dataset offshore Sierra Leone, targeting the Vega prospect to leverage growing international oil company interest. The high-quality data provided by TGS arrives at a pivotal moment, reinforcing exploration efforts in these regions and contributing to the emerging trends driven by recent South American discoveries. TGS has also strengthened its position in Mauritania with an agreement to enhance datasets in collaboration with the local government, maintaining its role as the predominant supplier of multi-client subsurface data.
In summary, TGS’s reprocessed seismic data for Angola’s Block 16 represents a vital step toward revitalizing exploration in a previously overlooked area. The use of advanced imaging techniques facilitates deeper evaluations of resource potential, highlighting significant neighboring discoveries that may lead to future success. TGS’s ongoing projects in West Africa further underscores the company’s strategic role in expanding exploration frontiers amid renewed sector interest.
Original Source: oilreviewafrica.com
