Qatar’s state-run RasGas has completed offshore drilling for 30 development wells for the 1.4bn cfd Barzan Gas project, the last North Field development permitted within the moratorium on new projects. State-owned Qatar Petroleum (QP) will use the data from Barzan’s wells, along with that of the field’s other projects, to monitor the reservoir’s behavior.

The North Field faces issues, including unexpected pressure drops, and QP is studying reservoir depletion. After its study is completed – probably in 2015 after the last of Barzan’s wells have been producing for at least 12 months – QP will take a decision on lifting the moratorium and allowing new projects such as expanding LNG output from existing plants, or keeping the moratorium in place. (CONTINUED - 322 WORDS)