Fortifying Offshore Ventures: Shelf Drilling's £14.3M Deal with CNOOC in UK's North Sea

Shelf Drilling, a prominent player in offshore drilling, has recently inked a significant contract valued at approximately £14.3 million ($17 million) with CNOOC Petroleum Europe Limited for operations in the UK Central North Sea.

The deal involves the use of the Shelf Drilling Fortress, a jack-up rig renowned for its robust capabilities in shallow waters. This rig, previously known as Noble Sam Hartley, is designed to handle a maximum drilling depth of 35,000 feet and can operate in water depths up to 400 feet, making it ideal for the challenging conditions of the North Sea.

The contract is set for a firm period covering two wells, with an estimated duration of four to five months, which not only showcases the rig's operational efficiency but also its pivotal role in meeting the energy demands in the region. Additionally, the agreement includes options for more wells which could extend the operational timeline by up to 13 months, underscoring the potential for long-term collaboration and sustained activity in the area.

This strategic partnership kicks off in September 2023, immediately following the rig’s stint at CNOOC’s Golden Eagle platform. This new commitment from CNOOC not only highlights the ongoing vitality of North Sea oil and gas exploration but also reflects positively on Shelf Drilling's reputation and operational prowess in the offshore drilling sector (Offshore Energy) (MarketScreener) (OEDigital).