British oil giant Shell is seeking permission from the South African government to drill up to five exploration and appraisal wells in the offshore Orange Basin, located west of the country. The basin has become a focal point for hydrocarbon exploration since the first discovery was announced in 2022.
Shell has commissioned international environmental consultancy SLR to conduct the necessary public consultations, which are set to conclude on 8 August. The proposed activities within the licence block known as Northern Cape Ultra Deep include drilling exploration and appraisal wells, vertical seismic profiling, well testing, plugging and abandonment of wells, and associated geophysical surveys.
According to a draft scoping report issued by SLR on 7 July, the area earmarked for drilling spans approximately 5,254 square kilometres and lies some 300 kilometres offshore. The water depths in this region range from 2,500 to 3,200 metres.
The Orange Basin, which straddles the maritime border between South Africa and Namibia, has garnered significant interest from the oil and gas industry following the recent hydrocarbon discoveries. Shell’s proposed exploration could further cement the basin’s reputation as a burgeoning hub for energy resources.
The outcome of the public consultations and subsequent government decision will determine the future of Shell’s drilling activities in this promising offshore region.
