New Gas Reserves Discovered in K-P: A Boost for Pakistan’s Energy Sector

December 13, 2024 Mahi Bukhari

OGDCL’s Major Discovery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) has announced the discovery of significant new gas and condensate reserves in the Betani-2 well, located in the Laki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P). This marks a pivotal moment for the region and the country’s energy sector.

Breakthrough in the Samanasak Formation

The discovery in the Samanasak formation is the first-ever hydrocarbon find in this area, highlighting the untapped potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to an OGDCL spokesperson, the new reserves are producing 2.14 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, along with 74 barrels of condensate daily. This significant find is set to play a crucial role in bolstering Pakistan’s energy sector.

Future Exploration Plans

OGDCL is not stopping with this discovery. The company has plans to drill additional wells in the area to explore further reserves. “This discovery is an important step forward for the company and the energy sector in Pakistan,” the spokesperson said. “We are hopeful that further exploration in the Samanasak formation will yield more reserves.”

Previous Discoveries and Collaborations

Success in Dera Bugti, Balochistan

Earlier, OGDCL commenced gas production from newly-discovered reserves in Dera Bugti, Balochistan, with support from the State Investment and Finance Corporation (SIFC). The collaboration between SIFC and OGDCL has led to substantial progress in the energy industry, contributing to the stability and growth of Pakistan’s energy sector.

In the Uch Sharif area of Dera Bugti, OGDCL drilled a well to a depth of 1,345 meters, resulting in the discovery of natural gas with a production capacity estimated at 5 million standard cubic feet per day. The Uch Gas Processing Plant now supplies gas to Uch Power Limited, significantly enhancing OGDCL’s economic performance with anticipated profits of up to Rs41.02 billion.

Focus on National Energy Security

OGDCL’s commitment to increasing production is evident in their strategic discoveries and developments across Pakistan. The company highlighted its focus on ensuring national energy security and promoting sustainable development. Recent discoveries in the district of Khairpur, Sindh, further contribute to Pakistan’s energy security, showcasing OGDCL’s pivotal role in the sector.

Conclusion

The discovery of new gas reserves in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a landmark achievement for OGDCL and Pakistan’s energy sector. As the company continues to explore and develop these resources, the future looks promising for national energy security and economic growth.

FAQs

1. What is the significance of the new gas reserves discovered in K-P?

The new gas reserves discovered in the Betani-2 well of Laki Marwat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, mark the first-ever hydrocarbon discovery in the Samanasak formation, producing 2.14 million standard cubic feet of gas and 74 barrels of condensate daily. This discovery is crucial for boosting Pakistan’s energy sector.

2. What are OGDCL’s future plans for exploration in K-P?

OGDCL plans to drill additional wells in the area to explore further reserves, hoping to yield more significant hydrocarbon discoveries and enhance national energy security.

3. How does the collaboration between OGDCL and SIFC benefit Pakistan’s energy sector?

The collaboration between OGDCL and the State Investment and Finance Corporation (SIFC) has led to substantial progress in the energy industry, contributing to the stability and growth of Pakistan’s energy sector through new discoveries and enhanced production capabilities.

4. What other regions have seen recent gas discoveries by OGDCL?

Apart from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, OGDCL has made significant gas discoveries in Dera Bugti, Balochistan, and the district of Khairpur, Sindh, further contributing to Pakistan’s energy security.

5. How will the new gas reserves impact OGDCL’s economic performance?

The new gas reserves are expected to significantly enhance OGDCL’s economic performance. For example, gas production from the Uch Sharif area in Dera Bugti is anticipated to bring profits of up to Rs41.02 billion by supplying gas to Uch Power Limited.