document: The Dutch Ministry reported on 11 July 2019 that it has awarded exploration blocks G7, G10, G11 and G13a (1,079 sq km) to NAM and block G13b (16 sq km) to Neptune Energy effective from 3 July 2019. The Dutch Ministry decided to split the G13 block into two separate blocks following the competing bid from Neptune. The G13b block cover a small area in the eastern and/or southern part of the G13 block which neighbours Neptuneâs operated blocks G14, G16 and G17. NAM made the original application for all the blocks on 17 September 2016. The 13-week period during which competing bids could be received ended on 19 December 2016.  The blocks lie on the border with the German Continental Shelf. Eleven exploration wells were drilled within the surface area covered by the blocks between 1990 and 1998. All the wells were unsuccessful. On 9 June 2010 GDF SUEZ relinquished its exploration licences for blocks G10, G11 and G13. The licences were awarded in June 2008 and the company did not drill any wells during its tenure.   Interest in blocks G7, G10, G11 and G13a will be held by Nederlandse Aardolie Mij BV (operator) and Energie Beheer Nederland BV and interest in block G13b will be held by Neptune Energy Netherlands BV (operator) and Energie Beheer Nederland BV.
summary: The Dutch Ministry reported on 11 July 2019 that it has awarded exploration blocks G7, G10, G11 and G13a (1,079 sq km) to NAM and block G13b (16 sq km) to Neptune Energy