--> Angola Block 18, by John L. Peak; #90037 (2005)

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Angola Block 18

John L. Peak
BP Exploration Operating Co. Ltd, Middlesex, United Kingdom

BP's first operated development in Angola will be Greater Plutonio in Block 18.

This development which will commence production in 2007 comprises of 6 fields: Galio, Cromio, Paladio, Plutonio and Cobalto, Plutonio, Cobalto and Platina.

These fields are spread over a wide geographical area (35 kilometers between Platina and Cobalto) and located in water depths of 1200 to 1500 metres. The combination of geographical spread and the requirement for deepwater technology brings a real challenge to create an economic development option, which is robust even at low oil prices, The development concept is a spread-moored FPSO (Floating Production, Storage and Offloading) vessel together with around 50 subsea production and water/gas injection wells.

The vessel will have storage for 2 million barrels and will be able to accommodate peak production rates of 220-240,000 bopd. Oil will be exported to trading tankers, via a remote offloading system from the FPSO. Gas export will be made to the Angola LNG scheme although initial gas production will be re-injected into the reservoir until this scheme is available.

All wells will be completed subsea, the producers being grouped together and hooked up to manifolds, while the injectors will be dispersed and tied into water or gas supply lines from the FPSO. These wells will include a range of premium sand control options and a selection of "Intelligent Well" technologies to optimise well performance and maximise recovery.

The primary objectives for an effective Greater Plutonio development are:

  • Bringing economic benefits to Angola, Sonangol, and the Contractor Group.
  • Delivery of safe, reliable and operable facilities.
  • Inclusion of Angolan content and development of an Angolan workforce.
  • Delivery of flexibility to cater for future upside opportunities as well as mitigating downsides.
  • Delivery of BP's business policies and environmental expectations.