MMS seeks interest in exploring Alaska offshore frontier areas
Feb. 5, 2004
The US Minerals Management Service seeking interest among E&D companies in exploring for oil and gas in the Chukchi Sea, Hope basin, and Norton basin, all largely unexplored areas of the Alaska Outer Continental Shelf. MMS issued a Call for Information and Nominations in late January, setting an Apr. 29 deadline for responses.
By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Feb. 5 -- The US Minerals Management Service ([email protected]) is trying to determine if there is any interest among E&D companies in exploring for oil and gas in the Chukchi Sea, Hope basin, and Norton basin, all largely unexplored areas of the Alaska Outer Continental Shelf. MMS issued a Call for Information and Nominations in late January, setting an Apr. 29 deadline for responses.
Although the Chukchi Sea and Norton basin have great potential as sources of oil or gas, high costs due to the distance from any infrastructure make them "challenging areas to lease," MMS said. Economic incentives similar to those offered recently in the Beaufort Sea Sale 186 held last September may be offered.
If there is interest, a sale will be designed. "If no one expresses interest, we save a lot of work and money," said MMS Alaska Regional Director John Goll.
