Kosmos Energy says that the Tortue-1 exploration well in Block C8 offshore Mauritania has encountered additional hydrocarbons while drilling to total depth to evaluate the deeper Albian stratigraphy.

Based on the preliminary analysis of drilling results, Tortue-1 has intersected approximately 10 meters (32 feet) of net hydrocarbon pay in the lower Albian section, which is currently interpreted to be gas. This is in addition to the previously announced 107 meters (351 feet) of net pay encountered in the Cenomanian, which was the primary objective. The well was drilled beyond the primary objective to obtain deeper stratigraphic information and enable seismic calibration of the Albian, which will be tested in subsequent wells. Down to total depth drilled, no water was encountered in the well.

Brian F. Maxted, chief exploration officer, said: 'We are encouraged by the presence of additional hydrocarbons in the deeper portion of the well. This suggests we have a working hydrocarbon system in both the Albian and Cenomanian sequences. While the Albian was not the primary objective of the Tortue-1 well, the presence of additional hydrocarbons in the Albian further de-risks other prospects in the Greater Tortue Complex which include primary reservoir targets in both the Albian and underlying Aptian.'

Tags: Kosmos Energy