Capricornus well yields spectacular flow rates as Orange Basin continues to deliver energy treasures
In a dramatic breakthrough that confirms Namibia’s emergence as Africa’s hottest new energy frontier, Rhino Resources has announced exceptional results from its Capricornus 1-X exploration well in the Orange Basin. Using the Noble Venturer drillship, the company has tapped into a significant oil reservoir with superior petrophysical properties.
The exploration well, targeting Lower Cretaceous formations, reached total depth and revealed an impressive 38 meters of net pay, with no water contact detected. The discovery was thoroughly evaluated through intensive wireline logging operations, yielding valuable hydrocarbon samples and sidewell cores before temporary plugging and abandonment.
In a development that has electrified industry observers, production testing across the light oil-bearing reservoir achieved a surface-constrained flow rate exceeding 11,000 barrels per day on a 40/64″ choke. The light 37° API oil showed limited associated gas with less than 2% CO2 and no hydrogen sulphide—characteristics that substantially enhance its commercial value.
The Capricornus 1-X well falls under Petroleum Exploration License 85, operated by Rhino Resources with a 42.5% working interest. The remaining stakes are held by Azule Energy (42.5%), Namcor (10%), and Korres Investments (5%), with energy giants bp and Eni each holding 50% interest in Azule Energy.
Fluid samples collected during testing will undergo comprehensive laboratory analysis as partners evaluate development options for this significant new discovery.
Source: Oil Review Africa
