In 2008, during drilling activities in EL1070, hydrocarbon shows were encountered before target depths were reached, indicating the potential for an unconventional shale play in the Middle Cambrian to Lower Ordovician Green Point Formation (“Green Point Shale”). This is in addition to the deeper conventional structural play in the middle Ordovician platform carbonates of the St. Georges Group, which has produced hydrocarbons at the Garden Hill South (GHS) discovery in PL2002-01.

As part of the review of Enegi’s assets that has been continuing since December 2009, geological maps and shallow borehole data for the Company’s assets have been analysed. Preliminary analysis suggests that the Green Point Shale extends onshore from EL1070 to PL2002-01, and covers an area of approximately 24km2 in the north-eastern part of PL2002-01.

The Green Point Shale is part of the Cow Head Group, which is composed of different layers of shale, silts and sands. A field study was performed in 2010 to assess the petroleum potential of the Cow Head Group present in PL2002-01. Initial sedimentological and geochemical studies indicate the presence of oil in the vugs and fractures associated with the sandstones and limestone strata in the Cow Head Group. Pictures of live oil found in the sandstone, and in the fractures and vugs in the limestone, can be viewed here. The findings suggest that there may be an additional lead in PL2002-01, however further studies are required to assess the potential for development.

Areas of operation
Port au Port Peninsula

Port au Port peninsula

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