Shell PLC (LSE:SHEL, NYSE:SHEL) has begun its testing of the Pensacola well which has encountered gas in its targeted reservoir, exploration partner Deltic Energy PLC (AIM:DELT) reported.
Deltic, in a statement, noted that Shell had recommended to joint venture partners that a full testing programme should be undertaken to evaluate the commerciality of the Pensacola prospect in the North Sea, and the partners agreed.
"We are very pleased to have encountered hydrocarbons in the Pensacola exploration well at this intermediate stage of well operations,” said Graham Swindells, Deltic's chief executive.
“We now look forward to working with the operator on the well testing programme, and will update the market once that programme is completed."
The testing is expected to take approximately 30 days to complete, Deltic noted.