Two new offshore natural gas fields discovered in Carnarvon Basin

Chevron recently announced the discovery of two new natural gas fields at Pinhoe-1 and Arnhem-1 in the Carnarvon Basin. The fields are located approximately 200 kilometres offshore, beyond the Gorgon and Wheatstone liquefied natural gas projects (LNG) in the Exmouth Plateau area of the Carnarvon Basin that Chevron is currently developing. The discoveries could drive the future expansion of these projects.

The Pinhoe-1 exploration discovery well drilled in 930 meters of water encountered about 60 metres of net gas pay. The Arnhem-1 exploration discovery well drilled in 1200 meters of water confirmed about 45.5 metres of net pay gas.

Chevron has now announced 19 gas discoveries in Australia since mid-2009. Chevron Asia Pacific Exploration and Production Company president Melody Meyer said: ”These discoveries in the Exmouth area are significant as they are located farther out from other discoveries in the greater Gorgon and Wheatstone development in the Carnarvon Basin, and indicate development potential in the broader region.”

Chevron Australia is the operator in the two permit areas, and has a 50 per cent interest with Shell Development Australia holding the other 50 per cent.