The Afina-1X well appraisal, by Springfield Exploration and Production (SEP) Limited in partnership with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) and GNPC Explorco, has yielded remarkable results, surpassing expectations and confirming significant hydrocarbon potential.
Light oil discovery and high productivity
The Drill Stem Test (DST) conducted on this reservoir demonstrated exceptional productivity, flowing at a maximum rate of 4,500 barrels of oil per day (bopd).
Pressure transient analysis further confirmed the reservoir’s strong performance, although reservoir depletion was observed compared to 2019 pressures, attributed to production activity.
Gas and condensate potential
In addition to the light oil discovery, the secondary target drilled in the Turonian sandstone revealed 10 meters of hydrocarbon-bearing sands, comprising gas and condensate.
A mini-DST test on this layer indicated an impressive estimated flow rate potential of up to 12,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd).
Pressure readings were consistent with data collected during the 2019 exploration, affirming the reservoir’s stability.
Strategic and commercial implications
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Springfield Kevin Okyere, expressed enthusiasm about the outcomes, highlighting the success of the appraisal as a pivotal step toward commercial development
“We are extremely happy with the results, which have further validated our geological and reservoir models. The Afina-1X well results provide an incredible platform for exploring commercial development options for both the Cenomanian and Turonian reservoirs,” Okyere stated.
He noted the potential for horizontal well drilling or alternative completion techniques to enhance production rates beyond those demonstrated by the vertical appraisal well.
A historic achievement for Ghana
Springfield, the first independent Ghanaian and African energy company to operate a deep-water asset and discover hydrocarbons, continues to make history.
The appraisal well test reaffirms its operational capacity and positions the company as a leader in Ghana’s oil and gas industry.
The Afina-1X well was originally drilled in 2019 at a water depth of 1,030 meters and a total depth of 4,085 meters.
The recent appraisal activity, conducted using the Deepsea Bollsta vessel, was completed on November 22, 2024, safely and on schedule.
Investment and future plans
To date, Springfield has invested over $250 million in the Afina project, with the appraisal alone costing more than $60 million.
These results will play a crucial role in shaping the company’s future development strategy for the field.
“This success underscores our commitment to the industry and our ability to deliver results that drive Ghana’s energy sector forward,” Okyere added.
Next steps in Ghana’s oil and gas landscape
The appraisal was conducted following a directive to assess the integration potential of the Afina Discovery with the Sankofa Field, operated by Italy’s Eni.
The arbitration ruling that mandated this assessment is part of ongoing efforts to resolve disputes over field unitization and ensure optimal resource development.
As Ghana’s energy sector continues to evolve, the Afina-1X appraisal results represent a significant milestone, paving the way for increased production and economic growth while cementing Springfield’s reputation as a key player in the industry.
