Shell and INEOS Energy confirmed an oil discovery at the Nashville exploration well in the U.S. Gulf, after the well encountered hydrocarbons in the deepwater Norphlet formation.
The companies said the well was drilled more than five miles beneath the seabed and identified high-quality oil in a play they view as among the Gulf’s most promising deepwater targets. Shell operates Nashville with a 79% working interest, while INEOS Energy holds 21%.
The discovery is being assessed for a possible tie-back to the nearby Appomattox platform, subject to technical and commercial review. INEOS Energy added that the well was drilled using Deepwater Proteus, and further work is underway to determine the size and commercial potential of the find.