CNOOC Limited, in collaboration with 80883, has reported a significant discovery in the exploration of metamorphic buried hills in the Beibu Gulf of the South China Sea. The Weizhou 10-5 South Oil and Gas Field is projected to yield 165,000 cubic feet of natural gas and 400 barrels of crude oil per day, marking a notable advancement in offshore energy exploration.

Located at an average water depth of 37 meters, the gas field represents a pioneering achievement in tapping metamorphic sandstone and slate buried hills. This breakthrough highlights the potential for expanding deep-play oil and gas exploration in the region, contributing to the development of new energy resources.

CNOOC CEO Zhou Xinhuai stated: “This represents the first major breakthrough in metamorphic sandstone and slate buried hills exploration offshore China, setting important example for advancing deep plays and buried hills oil and gas exploration.” He further emphasized the company’s commitment to future exploration, saying: “In the future, CNOOC Limited will continue to intensify research on key theories and technologies for deep play exploration, to enhance research and development capabilities, advance reserves and production growth, and to ensure stable supply of oil and gas.”

The discovery underscores CNOOC’s focus on leveraging advanced technologies to unlock challenging geological formations, enhancing its capacity to meet energy demands. The Weizhou 10-5 South field is expected to play a key role in bolstering the company’s production portfolio, supporting a reliable supply of natural gas and crude oil for domestic and regional markets.

This achievement is anticipated to drive further investment in exploration technologies, fostering innovation in the offshore energy sector. By successfully navigating the complexities of metamorphic buried hills, CNOOC sets a precedent for similar projects, potentially unlocking additional reserves in the South China Sea. The project also contributes to economic growth by creating opportunities for technological development and resource extraction in the Beibu Gulf region.

CNOOC’s ongoing efforts to refine exploration techniques and expand its resource base align with the industry’s broader goals of ensuring energy security and sustainability. The Weizhou 10-5 South Oil and Gas Field discovery reinforces the company’s position as a leader in offshore energy exploration, paving the way for future advancements in deep-play and buried hills resource development.