Second significant gas discovery in SA waters

Deepsea Stavanger, the rig used in Total's offshore operations

The Luiperd well was drilled to a total depth of about 3,400 metres and encountered 73 metres of net gas condensate pay in well-developed good quality lower cretaceous reservoirs. Following a comprehensive coring and logging programme the well will be tested to assess the dynamic reservoir characteristics and deliverability.

“We are very pleased with this second discovery and its very encouraging results, which prove the world-class nature of this offshore gas play,” said Arnaud Breuillac, president, exploration & production,Total. ‘’With this discovery and the successful seismic acquisitions, Total and its partners have acquired important data on the Paddavissie fairway, which will help to progress development studies and engage with South African authorities regarding the possible conditions of the gas commercialization.”

The Block 11B/12B covers an area of 19,000km², with water depths ranging from 200-1,800 metre. It is operated by Total with a 45% working interest, alongside Qatar Petroleum (25%), CNR international (20%) and Main Street, a South African consortium (10%).