Condor Energies Makes Strides with Its First Horizontal Well
CALGARY, Alberta – Condor Energies Inc. (TSX:CDR) is thrilled to share a significant operational update regarding its ground-breaking first horizontal well in Uzbekistan. The company has successfully drilled the vertical section of this well to a depth of 2805 meters, marking a pivotal moment in its endeavors in Central Asia.
Details of the First Horizontal Well
The initial drilling phase of the First Well was executed as a vertical pilot. This approach allowed the team to penetrate essential carbonate reservoir sections as well as deeper clastic reservoir sections that have been previously underexploited. Evaluations from the wireline log data revealed promising findings, highlighting 28.5 meters of non-contiguous net gas pay in the carbonate layers and 9.1 meters in the deeper clastics. Further data was gathered through extensive wireline logs and full-diameter core samples, preparing the groundwork for an ambitious 1000-meter horizontal bore.
Challenges and Technical Advances
To facilitate the upcoming horizontal drilling, a cement kick-off plug has been precisely placed beneath the existing intermediate casing string. The current operation involves sidetracking the well to approximately 90 degrees to reach the targeted carbonate reservoirs. Using advanced Logging While Drilling (LWD) technology, we aim to geo-steer the horizontal section within the reservoir toward the structure’s crest. If drilling conditions are favorable, the length of the horizontal section could be extended even beyond the ambitious initial target, making it potentially the longest horizontal well ever drilled in Uzbekistan.
Production Expectations
Forecasted completion and testing of the horizontal section is set for November 2025. Internal estimates predict an initial production rate ranging between 13 to 20 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/day), which could be transformative for the company and the region.
Expanding Operations in Uzbekistan
In tandem with the horizontal well project, Condor is in the process of acquiring a second drilling rig. This additional rig will focus on an under-developed gas field in the southern region of Condor's licensed areas. Currently, this field has shown promising results from a single downdip gas well, with recent perforations of an eight-meter thick carbonate layer boosting production significantly—from an average of 1.1 MMscf/day to 7.5 MMscf/day. For the past five months, this well has maintained an average output of 6.2 MMscf/day.
Strategic Future Developments
The recently completed recompletion work has reduced risks associated with the larger undeveloped structural closures highlighted in the company’s new 3-D seismic data analysis. Plans are underway to drill a vertical well from the top of the structure, which will not only confirm current mapping but will also help collect modern wireline and core data, providing key test rates. Following this, Condor intends to initiate a comprehensive pad-style horizontal drilling program targeting three reservoirs in 2026, aiming to drill up to five horizontal wells to further amplify production.
Leadership Insights
Don Streu, Condor’s President and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about the development: "Our team has shown incredible expertise in launching this multi-well drilling campaign, collecting essential data from the pilot area that confirms gas pay across significant undeveloped regions. Our deepened understanding of the hydrocarbon systems and reservoirs enhances Condor's potential for success in the future. The prospect of drilling Uzbekistan's first 1000-meter horizontal well is exhilarating and signals a major advancement for both Condor and the region."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Condor's first horizontal well?
It marks a pivotal advancement in the company’s operations, potentially yielding the longest horizontal well in Uzbekistan, which may enhance gas production significantly.
What are the expected production rates from the First Well?
Internal estimates suggest initial production could achieve between 13 and 20 MMscf/day, which indicates a transformative potential for the company.
What additional steps is Condor taking in Uzbekistan?
Condor plans to initiate a second drilling rig, targeting under-developed gas fields, and aims for a comprehensive horizontal drilling program in 2026.
How does Condor ensure data accuracy in its evaluations?
The company utilizes advanced technology such as logging while drilling (LWD) to gather comprehensive data on reservoir characteristics.
Who can be contacted for more information about Condor?
For further inquiries, readers are encouraged to contact Don Streu, President and CEO, or Sandy Quilty, Vice President of Finance and CFO, at 403-201-9694.
