According to reports in early-December 2019, the government of Neuquen Province has awarded a new 35-year unconventional exploitation concession for the Aguila Mora block to Vista Oil & Gas on 29 November 2019. Commitments for the new license include a two-year pilot plan targeting shale oil from the Vaca Muerta Formation for USD 32 million. Specifically, Vista is expected to reactivate three existing wells, drill two new horizontal wells, and construct new surface facilities as part of the program. The company operates the block with 90% interest, with provincial company GyP Neuquen holding the remaining 10% stake.  Aguila Mora block covers 97 sq km of land in the Northeast Platform part of Neuquen Basin. The block is situated adjacent to ExxonMobilâs Bajo del Choique - La Invernada block where the Vaca Muerta shale is also being developed.  Aguila Mora area includes the Aguila Mora shale oil and gas field that was discovered and put on-stream in August 2013. The field produced over 189 Mbo and 249 MMscfg, along with 129 Mb of water, from Vaca Muerta Formation before it was temporarily shut-in in late-2015.   Background Information  Vista acquired the Aguila Mora block from Shellâs Argentinean subsidiary, O&G Developments, in October 2018. The transaction was executed as an addendum to a prior agreement from September 2018 where Vista assigned 35% of its 45% non-operating interest to Shell on the latterâs operated Coiron Amargo Sur Oeste block.
Argentina, Coiron Amargo Sur Oeste