How does subsurface clarity unlock drilling success?

Challenge

In 2019, an operator approached us shortly after being awarded a new license. 

They needed a second opinion on an older well test, new perspectives on the trap and petroleum system, and a way to calibrate seismic observations with geophysical input from another team. 

The work would form part of the official license program – and help shape the way forward.

Approach

We brought together a multidisciplinary team across reservoir engineering, structural geology, geopressure analysis, petroleum systems and seismic interpretation. Proprietary seismic data from the client was integrated with our in-house subsurface database, enabling detailed interpretation of faults and horizons. These fault polygons became a key input to the petroleum system analysis.

Reservoir engineer Lex Rijkels provided an independent evaluation of the earlier drill stem test. Together with the geophysical insights, this helped build a more robust picture of the trap and its potential.

We worked closely with the license team throughout – refining the approach as new findings emerged and decisions were made. 

Is your company considering farming into existing production? Reach out and let’s discuss how we can support you.

Result

Our evaluation pointed clearly toward prospectivity. The client chose to continue with the license and used our documentation to attract a new operator to take on the drilling phase. The feedback? That this was the most comprehensive license maturation work they had seen.

In spring 2025, a new high-pressure, high-temperature well was drilled – and confirmed the Mistral Sør gas discovery. The well proved between 20–45 million barrels of oil equivalent, marking a successful outcome for all license partners.