Energy major Shell has secured Environmental Authorization to conduct drilling activities off the coast of South Africa. The company plans to drill up to five wells in the Northern Cape Ultra Deep Block in the Orange Basin as it strives to unlock similar discoveries to those made on the Namibian side of the basin.
Shell submitted its application for authorization in 2024. While the drilling timeline has not been disclosed, the anticipated exploration and appraisal campaign will see the energy major drill to depths of between 2,500m and 3,200m.
Situated in close proximity to Namibia’s Venus discovery – which expects a final investment decision in 2026 -, the Northern Cape Ultra Deep Block offers significant exploration potential.
Source: Energy Capital & Power
