TGS has finalized the reprocessing of seismic data for Angola’s Block 16, aiming to rekindle exploration interest. With modern imaging techniques, the project covers 3,684 square kilometers in the Lower Congo Basin. Block 16 has remained underexplored since 2013, but new findings in previously identified reservoirs signal potential for future discoveries. TGS reinforces its commitment to supporting exploration in this vital region.
TGS, a Norwegian seismic firm, has completed the reprocessing of the Block 16 GeoStreamer MC3D seismic dataset in Angola’s Lower Congo Basin. This project, conducted in collaboration with the Agência Nacional de Petróleo, Gás e Biocombustíveis (ANPG), aims to reignite interest in the beneath explored Block 16. In recent years, exploration within this basin has increased significantly, with numerous crucial discoveries made.
The Block 16 rejuvenation project, covering an area of 3,684 square kilometers, incorporates advanced depth processing workflows, enhancing imaging for a thorough evaluation of the deeper target plays in both post-salt and pre-salt geological sections. Despite its potential, Block 16 has remained largely unexplored since the early 2010s, with the last exploration well drilled in 2013. Previously known discoveries included Bengo and Longa in the north, discovered in 1994 and 1995, respectively.
A recent reassessment of the Lower Congo Basin wells has revealed oil recovery from upper Miocene reservoirs in the southern area. The reprocessed survey also includes partial coverage of Tchihumba, a field discovered in 2003, estimated to hold 136 million barrels of recoverable hydrocarbons. Additionally, the Lumpembe-1 discovery, made in 2023 on Block 15/06 and currently undergoing development studies, is included within the survey’s coverage.
David Hajovsky, TGS’s executive vice president for multi-client projects, expressed enthusiasm about supporting exploration in the area with quality seismic data. He noted that the identified hydrocarbon accumulations, alongside significant neighboring discoveries, create strong prospects for future exploration activities. TGS has also recently enhanced its Fusion 3D seismic dataset offshore Sierra Leone and signed an agreement to improve datasets in Mauritania, further solidifying its role as a key player in multi-client subsurface data in West Africa.
The recent advancements in reprocessing the seismic data of Angola’s Block 16 by TGS highlight the potential for renewed exploration interest in the region. With enhanced imaging capabilities, combined with previously identified opportunities in the Lower Congo Basin, there is significant potential for future oil and gas discoveries. TGS continues to play an influential role in supporting oil exploration in this promising area, positioning itself as a critical contributor to West Africa’s petroleum sector.
Original Source: oilreviewafrica.com
