Complex operations and Advanced Technologies
This journey back in time in the underground geological formations of the Earth required professional experience and knowledge – features that Han Asparuh team possesses. Our specialists faced the challenge to overcome 2000 m of water and 4000 m of rock. The drilling campaign was supported by a complete logistic chain that included 3 supply vessels, 2 helicopters and an onshore base in Varna.
Total relied on the latest generation drillship Noble Globetrotter II which has an excellent safety record and uses advanced conventional technologies. The drillship is state of the art and has a Dynamic Positioning system where a computer automatically manages the power of 6 propellers to keep the ship on location in the deep waters whatever the weather conditions. The drillship is also equipped with a remote operated submarine to observe what is happening at the bottom of the sea.
Continuous endeavor to explore for hydrocarbons in the Black Sea
A second exploration well Rubin-1 was started in late September 2017. The same drillship, which was used in the successful first well operations, was contracted again. Port Lesport, Varna remained the onshore base for conducting the logistics operations and the same supply vessels and helicopters were deployed. This second deep water well was again located in the Bulgarian Exclusive Economic Zone of the Black Sea, this time approximately 90 km away from the nearest coastline and 14 km northeast of Polshkov-1. The operations were completed in January 2018.
A third well Melnik-1 was drilled from November 2018 until January 2019.
The three exploration wells have demonstrated the existence of a petroleum system in the deep waters of the Black Sea.
Total E&P Bulgaria along with its partners – OMV Offshore Bulgaria GmbH and Repsol Bulgaria B.V.– retained their commitment to comply with the highest health, safety and environment standards as well as to operate in the most efficient and professional manner.
