Occidental Petroleum has announced that it has discovered oil at its Bandit prospect in the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico).
The exploration well, located approximately 125 miles (201 kilometres) south of the Louisiana coast in Green Canyon Block 680, encountered oil-bearing Miocene sands.
The project co-owners are currently evaluating the results to determine the next stages for the discovery. Occidental serves as the operator with a 45.375 per cent working interest, while Chevron USA and Woodside Energy hold 37.125 per cent and 17.5 per cent respectively.
Occidental noted that the find has the potential for subsea tie-backs to an adjacent facility or other infrastructure in the nearby area. Utilizing existing platforms would support the development of the Green Canyon site.
Jeff Simmons, Senior Vice President, Subsurface Technology and Chief Petrotechnical Officer, stated that Occidental is focused on strengthening its Gulf of America portfolio.
“We believe this discovery demonstrates the continued importance of the Gulf of America as a strategic source of reliable domestic oil supply that supports long-term energy security,” he added.
