The selected zones are in different Algerian sedimentary petroleum basins offering a high potential in petroleum resources, said the statement by the ministry’s National Agency for the Redevelopment of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT).
Ahnet basin, which was not included in the earlier licensing round, was incorporated in the tender.
Pre-qualified companies would obtain a general technical presentation on July 27, 2009 and data rooms of detailed information on each project would be open in a session from August 15, 2009 to October 22, 2009.
Energy and Mines Minister Chakib Khelil said the country would favor firms with technology suited to exploring its more difficult gas deposits.
Algeria is planning to raise its gas exports to 85 billion cubic meters by 2013 from present 62 billion cubic meters.
In December 2008, out of a total of 16 on offer, the country has awarded only four licenses.
