Total Seeks Partners for Montelimar Shale Gas Opportunity

Total E&P is seeking partner(s) to farm-in a shale gas opportunity on its operated Montelimar Permi, located in the south-east of France with up to 85 TCF of IGIP.

The Montelimar Permit comprises 4327 km2 and Total has already sought an extension for an additional 1856 km2 to the north of the permit.

The permit is awarded for 3 exploration phases lasting a total of 5 years duration. The first phase (until March 2012) will be focussed on detailed characterization of the shales; high grading a well location & drilling, sampling, fracing and testing a vertical well. The second & third phase will drill, frac and test a horizontal well, to determine productivity & commerciality.

Total E&P is seeking to farm-out up to 50% interest in the permit, on a competitive promoted basis in a technical study & two well program to be executed in the 3 phase 5 year exploration period.

Total will retain operatorship.

Source: Total SA

Read ore about Total and Shale Gas HERE