TAQA, the international energy company from Abu Dhabi, has received approval from the UK government for development of its Morrone field (block 9/23b) in the Central North Sea.

The initial phase of development will consist of an extended reach well drilled from the TAQA-operated Harding platform which lies 5 km north of the Morrone field. Morrone is expected to initially produce over 3,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day with first oil expected in the 3rd quarter of 2014.

Pete Jones, Managing Director of TAQA’s UK business, said: “Reaching this milestone so quickly is due to an intense effort by TAQA’s subsurface and wells teams, close collaboration with our partners, and a smooth transition of operatorship of the field from BP in June 2013.”

TAQA’s interest in Morrone is 70%. Maersk Oil North Sea UK Limited has a 30% interest.

Press Release, December 16, 2013