Deltic Energy PLC (AIM:DELT, FRA:7RC) told investors that its partner, Royal Dutch Shell (NYSE:RDS.A) PLC, has completed a geophysical site survey over the planned Pensacola exploration well location in the Southern North Sea.
The survey was completed on time and without incident, it noted.
The programme’s findings will be interpreted and, if needed, a second geotechnical phase will take place before the end of the year, including the collection of samples from the seabed.
"The completion of the site survey on Pensacola is a key part of the well planning process and represents another important milestone as the Deltic-Shell JV continues the preparatory works in advance of drilling,” said chief executive Graham Swindells.
“We look forward to progressing through the planning phase as we get closer to drilling this high impact prospect."
During the first half of 2021, Shell confirmed it would drill Pensacola in the second quarter of 2022.