Sweden-based oil and gas exploration company PA Resources has begun drilling the I-7 exploration well on the Carla South exploration prospect in Block I, Equatorial Guinea.
The Noble Energy operated I-7 exploration well is being spud using Atwood Hunter semi-submersible drilling rig.
Carla South prospect lies on trend with the Carla North discovery, which was recently appraised in Block O to the north of Block I.
Noble Energy is drilling the well targeting the Tertiary sandstones of similar age to those discovered in the north.
The total depth is expected to reach in about 25 days, while a sidetrack well is also planned for similar duration.
PA Resources CEO Bo Askvik said the company has resumed exploration drilling in Block I, following an extended period focussed on development of the Aseng and Alen Fields.
"In addition it is likely that an appraisal well will be drilled in Block I later this year on the existing Diega discovery and this year’s drilling programme will be valuable in progressing the next field development or developments in Block I," Askvik added.
PA Resources has 5.7% interest in the block.