ConocoPhillips gets approval for Saturn development, says U.K. OCS offers competitive opportunities

ConocoPhillips said July 29 that it has received approval from the U.K. Department of Trade and Industry for development of the Saturn Unit Area in the United Kingdom Southern North Sea.

First gas production from the Saturn Unit Area is expected in the fourth quarter of 2005 with an initial gross rate of approximately 75 million cubic feet per day, the company said, with a maximum rate of some 170 million cubic feet per day expected within a year of startup.

“This project is another step toward our strategy of prolonged and efficient production from the North Sea,” Henry McGee, president of ConocoPhillips Europe & Africa, said in a statement. “It is a great example of where we can benefit from strong relationships with our partners, use our technical expertise and extensive experience in the North Sea, and link with our existing infrastructure. It clearly demonstrates that there are competitive opportunities in the U.K. continental shelf.”

The Saturn Unit Area lies 23 miles north of the Lincolnshire Offshore Gas Gathering System on the U.K. continental shelf. Initial development will consist of three wells from a normally unattended six-slot wellhead platform at the suspended appraisal well in 82 feet of water. A 27-mile, 14-inch gas export pipeline will tie the platform back to new reception facilities to be added to the Lincolnshire gathering system.

ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Ltd. is the operator of the Saturn Unit Area with a participating interest of 42.9 percent.