Kosmos Energy has entered into three farm-out agreements with BP plc covering three blocks in the Agadir Basin, offshore Morocco.
Under the agreement, BP will pick up 30% non-operating interest in Essaouira, 26.325% in Foum Assaka, and 45% in Tarhazoute. The three contiguous blocks cover approximately 25,000sq km and water depths range up to 3,000m.
BP will fund Kosmos’ share of the cost of one exploration well in each of the three blocks, subject to a maximum cost per well. In the event a second exploration well is drilled in any block, BP shall pay a disproportionate share of the well cost subject to a maximum cost per well. BP shall also pay its proportionate share of past costs. Completion of the transactions is subject to customary closing conditions, including Moroccan Government approvals.
Kosmos also announces that it has recently signed a petroleum agreement with the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) covering the Tarhazoute Offshore block, previously held under a reconnaissance contract since 2011. The Tarhazoute block is contiguous with the Essaouira and Foum Assaka blocks and will allow integrated exploration over a significant portion of the Agadir Basin, one of the last remaining underexplored salt basins along the Atlantic Margin.
Brian F. Maxted, Chief Executive Officer, Kosmos Energy, said: “The Agadir Basin farm-out along with the petroleum agreement for Tarhazoute mark significant and important forward steps for Kosmos in Morocco as we prepare to commence drilling in the first half of 2014. We are delighted that BP will be joining this venture as they add significant value to our operations, particularly given their proven success in salt basin exploration and production.”
Kosmos serves as operator on Essaouira, Foum Assaka, and Tarhazoute with 30%, 29.925%, and 30% interest. Its other partners on the blocks include ONHYM with 25% in all three. Pathfinder Hydrocarbon Ventures Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fastnet Oil & Gas plc, holds the remaining 18.75% interest in the Foum Assaka offshore block.