No abstract

Controlled Source Electromagnetic (CSEM) is an emerging technology with the potential to provide detailed resistivity images of the subsurface. Following a string of successes with the deployment of CSEM and drilling performance in DW Borneo in 2004, CSEM data was acquired over a number of similar structures in 2006. Proprietary inversion techniques indicated the possible presence of a shallow surface resistive body, while hinting at the presence of slightly elevated resistivities at depth. An exploration well campaign was carried out over the prospect late in 2006, but rather than encountering the expected hydrocarbon pay, the well encountered a near surface and resistive hydrate layer. Good quality but water-bearing reservoir was encountered at the target depth. This disappointment was the first CSEM negative test in the basin and vindicates the need for further development of processing and interpretation methodologies. This paper will present the key CSEM experiences in DW Borneo to date, highlighting on the pros and cons of a still promising and evolving technology in what is still a challenging area.