i3 Energy PLC (LON:I3E) has contracted Gardline Limited for a survey over the Liberator field ahead of a development programme.
The survey sets out to cover the areas of two planned production wells, which are pencilled in for the Phase I development, in addition to the planned export pipeline route and possible drill location for the Liberator West appraisal well.
It is expected that the survey will start in September.
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The survey findings will feed into an environmental statement and necessary engineering data for the Liberator field development plan.
On the current timeline, i3 is working toward an approval for the FDP during the first quarter 2019, as an updated FDP is due to be submitted to the UK Oil & Gas Authority in the fourth quarter.
In the meantime, i3 continues to work on a joint venture transaction to support the project.
"While Joint Venture discussions are ongoing, i3 remains focused on completing key operational targets to ensure readiness for further stages of the Liberator project,” said John Woods, i3 chief development officer.
“Submission of our updated FDP in Q4 2018 is key and will allow i3 and our potential JV partner to ensure smooth and timely progress as we work towards achieving first oil from Liberator."