Karoon Energy reports that PAT-2, the second of two new production wells in the Patola field in the BM-S-40 production license in Brazil (Karoon – 100%), has been successfully drilled to a total depth of 2,313 metres utilising the Noble Developer drilling rig (formerly known as the Maersk Developer). Like PAT-1, PAT-2 encountered high quality Oligocene turbidite sandstones close to the prognosed depth, and preliminary interpretation of wireline log data has indicated net pay thickness in line with pre-drill expectations. Reservoir quality is better than predicted and closely aligned with PAT-1 and wells in the adjacent Baúna and Piracaba fields.

Remaining activities associated with the Patola development include the completion of both wells, installation of a subsea pipeline and umbilicals from Patola to the Cidade de Itajaí FPSO and tying the wells into existing riser slots on the FPSO. Completion of FPSO pipework to tie the wells into the main production stream will then be undertaken before the new facilities are commissioned.

First production from the Patola field is targeted to commence in the first quarter of CY2023, with a short plateau production rate of more than 10,000 bopd expected, prior to the onset of natural decline.

Following the Patola completion activities, it is planned that the Noble Developer drilling rig will move to the Neon field to drill the first of potentially two Neon control wells, subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals.

Dr Julian Fowles, CEO and Managing Director of Karoon, said:
“Patola is Karoon’s first development project since taking over as operator of the Baúna concession. The first phase, drilling the wells, has been completed within schedule and budget. Most importantly there have been no material safety or environmental issues.

The majority of the materials for the next phase of the development are now either onsite or ready to be shipped to site. Subject to weather and other unforeseen delays, the project is on track to commence production in the first quarter of CY2023.”