Hitherto unreported, On 29 November 2019, exploration rights for the Deep Offshore West Orange Basin were awarded to Total. Total is understood to have signed a deal with Sezigyn (in May 2018) in which Total would take operatorship and an 80% interest in the block once exploration rights were awarded.  Sezigyn was awarded a TCP for the block immediately after Shell relinquished it. The ultra-deepwater block, was held Shell until October 2016. It covers 37,400 sq km and lies in water ranging in depth between 500 m and 4,000 m. It is bound to the north by the maritime boundary with Namibia and to the east by two permits, Block 2C and Block 3B/4B.  Total operates the block with an 80% interest, Sezigyn holds the remaining 20% stake.  Exploration to date within the block:  No wells have been drilled in the ultra-deepwater block however, In October 2015, Shell received approval for drilling within the area. The company identified a 900 sq km area towards the north western margin of the block in which the well would have been located (at the time Shell estimated a well would cost USD 150 and 200 million).  In late February 2013, Shell completed major 3D seismic survey over the block. The survey was conducted by the âPolar Duchessâ which towed eight-streamers, 8 km in length, 200 m apart giving a total area under tow of 11.2 sq km. The 7,900 sq km survey started in early November 2012.
Exploration rights for the Deep Offshore West Orange Basin were awarded to Total. Total is understood to have signed a deal with Sezigyn (in May 2018) in which Total would take operatorship and an 80% interest in the block once exploration rights were awarded. Sezigyn was awarded a TCP for the block immediately after Shell relinquished it. T