Cairn Oil and Gas, a private oil and gas exploration and production company and part of Vedanta, has partnered with Norway-based Electromagnetic Geoservices (EMGS) to deploy advanced 3D Controlled Source Electromagnetic (CSEM) survey technology for exploration activities in its Krishna-Godavari (KG) deepwater block off India’s east coast.
The survey is expected to characterise and prioritise the extensive offshore exploration prospect portfolio within the block by integrating the gathered CSEM data with recently re-processed 3D seismic data to enhance subsurface model accuracy and reduce exploration risks.
The company has over 4,500 sq km of offshore deep-water block in the KG basin in the east-coast, with water depths ranging from 500 metres to 2,500 metres. The company targets drilling operations in 2026 across a 3,600 sq. km zone within the block that already hosts four gas discoveries and numerous multi-trillion cubic feet (TCF) potential prospects, it said
“Cairn has been at the forefront of technology adoption for efficient exploration and production in India’s upstream sector. Through our partnership with EMGS, we will fast track development of the deepwater block in line with our vision to contribute 50% of India’s oil and gas production,” said Hitesh Vaid, chief financial officer, Cairn Oil and Gas.
EMGS, a global leader in marine electromagnetic surveys, has supported major global energy companies with subsurface data acquisition. The company’s vessel Atlantic Guardian is currently operating in the KGDWHP-2017/1 block using its next-generation “Deep Blue” source system. The data acquisition campaign will continue for the next several weeks, followed by processing and interpretation.
CSEM is a geophysical method used to map subsurface resistivity, enhancing hydrocarbon detection accuracy.
“The acquired data will support the definition of locations for exploration, appraisal and subsequent development, ensuring drilling decisions are based on the most accurate and comprehensive subsurface data,” said Sam Algar, chief exploration officer at Cairn. “By leveraging the global expertise from EMGS and the latest advancements in CSEM technology, the KGDWHP-2017/1 block is poised for successful exploration and development, unlocking its hydrocarbon potential.”
Cairn is one of the early adopters of 3D CSEM survey technology in India.
In March, Cairn also entered a strategic alliance with TechnipFMC to accelerate the rollout of integrated subsea infrastructure for upcoming deepwater developments.
In an earlier interview with FE, Vaid revealed that Cairn plans to invest $3–4 billion over the next three to four years to expand its upstream footprint and fuel growth.
Beyond its current production assets in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, Cairn is increasingly focusing on the Northeast, citing significant untapped potential in the region.
The company also anticipates growing participation from international oil and gas players, especially following recent amendments to the Oilfields Regulation and Development Act, which aim to boost private sector involvement and streamline operations in India’s hydrocarbon sector.
Cairn’s growth projects include deepwater, tight oil, ASP (Alkaline-Surfactant-Polymer), shale, and Northeast exploration among others to enhance production from its diversified portfolio. The company is on the lookout for partnering with global oil and gas companies with expertise in such growth projects, it said.
The company currently contributes 25% of the nation’s domestic crude oil production and has a bold vision to double the contribution.
In addition to production from new wells, the company is also focusing on registering output decline from its matured fields. Vaid noted that the company hopes the declining trajectory changes next year, showcasing growth on an annual as well as quarterly basis.