Salamander Energy has been awarded two new exploration concessions, L26/50 and L15/50, in the Thai 20th Licensing Round.

The contract for Block L26/50 was formally signed in Bangkok on 19th December 2007. This acreage is adjacent to Salamander’s operated Savannakhet PSC in Lao PDR.

Salamander has also received notification that its bid for Block L15/50 has been approved by the Cabinet and will be signed in the near future. L15/50 is located to the west of the Nam Phong Power Plant in North East Thailand. The block contains an existing gas discovery called Dao Ruang. The award to Salamander was made following a competitive tender, with two other companies applying for the acreage.

Dong Mun Update

The Dong Mun-3 well, spudded on 8th November 2007, is currently at a depth of 2,021 metres at the base of the 12¼” hole section. 9 5/8” casing is now being run prior to drilling ahead to the primary reservoir target.

James Menzies, Chief Executive of Salamander, commented, “I am delighted with the award of these new exploration licences which firmly establish Salamander as the leading player in the Khorat Basin. Our drilling program in this region is progressing well and we look forward to drilling the Phu Horm South well on completion of Dong Mun-3.”

Tags: Salamander Energy