✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | June 13th, 2024 — Nearly two years after the landmark $4 billion contract was signed between Sonatrach, Occidental Petroleum (Oxy), Total Energies, and ENI, the Berkine consortium is advancing the development of the Berkine Basin perimeters. The four partners have awarded the seismic and subsurface exploration project to the French company Viridien, marking the beginning of extensive field operations.
Viridien, formerly known as CGG, is renowned for its expertise in seismic studies and subsurface imaging. It has been instrumental in the development of the Hassi Bahamou gas field in Timimoun. The company will now conduct a high-density seismic imaging study in the Berkine Basin in Algeria.
In a statement released yesterday, Viridien announced its selection by the Berkine consortium, a joint venture between Sonatrach, Occidental Petroleum, and other international partners, for a high-density seismic imaging study covering 3,400 km² in blocks B404a and B208 of the Berkine Basin, located in eastern Algeria. The Berkine development contract is one of the most significant agreements signed in Algeria in recent times, aiming to extend the production field and enhance the recovery rate of old wells.
The strategic program set by the four partners in the Berkine consortium, owned 51% by Sonatrach, 24.5% by Occidental Petroleum, and 12.25% each by ENI and Total Energies, includes high-density 3D seismic acquisition and the drilling of 100 oil wells. Additionally, the plan involves converting 46 wells primarily into Water Alternate Gas (WAG) wells to improve the recovery rate to 55%, facilitated through two Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) pilot projects.
To successfully execute this initiative, detailed information and data on the subsurface quality are crucial, which is why the partners have enlisted Viridien’s expertise. “To provide new insights into the subsurface and particularly to enhance the resolution of the fine and faulted geological structure of this area, Viridien will dedicate a team of scientists from its imaging center in France. These experts will leverage Viridien’s advanced imaging technologies and their unparalleled experience in successfully completing similar large and ultra-dense terrestrial seismic imaging projects in the Middle East,” the French company stated.
Beyond improving production, which is central to the country’s policy, the Berkine consortium has embarked on another critical mission: reducing its carbon footprint. This approach aims to market clean energy that meets European standards, which is Algeria’s most significant market.
This project not only exemplifies Algeria’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology for resource development but also highlights the country’s dedication to sustainable and environmentally responsible practices in the energy sector.
Translated from:
https://lalgerieaujourdhui.dz/developpement-du-gisement-de-hassi-berkine-sonatrach-et-ses-partenaires-passent-a-laction/
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