Empyrean Energy PLC (AIM:EME) said towing and anchoring operations ahead of the spudding of the LH 17-2-1 well at the Jade prospect, offshore China should start on Wednesday (6 April 2022) and take around four days.
Strict Covid protocols are in place, it added, with two onshore bases set up for helicopter to rig transfers, to provide an alternate and manage any shutdowns.
Tom Kelly, Empyrean’s chief executive, said: “With the improvement in the weather, we are excited to be so close to commencing drilling at the 395mln barrel Jade target within days.
“Shareholders can feel confident that Empyrean is well represented on the ground in China with company technical director, geologist and geophysicist - Gaz Bisht - overseeing the drilling campaign on behalf of Empyrean."
Empyrean is the operator of Block 29/11 in China and has 100% working interest during the exploration phase, with partner China National Offshore Oil Company (CNOOC) having an option to take 51% if it is developed.