Ultra-deep survey underway

Environmental and geophysical survey offshore Namibia

NAMIBIA: An environmental and geophysical survey is being undertaken to map one of Namibia’s most challenging and remote offshore locations that is key to the country’s future energy operations.

Galp, a Portuguese energy corporation, awarded Fugro a contract to conduct an environmental and geophysical survey offshore Namibia.

With fieldwork completed earlier this month, the survey reached depths of 2,000 metres. The Fugro Venturer, a geophysical vessel, collected sediment samples for environmental and chemical analysis before an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) captured seabed video footage.

Additionally, Fugro acquired in situ full ocean depth water profiles and water samples to measure the current biodiversity. The Geo-data collected through this survey will support the identification of potentially sensitive habitats, advance knowledge of remote seamounts, and contribute to informed project planning and resource management.

Furthermore, the geophysical survey will provide insights into the underwater landscape, ensuring the safe movement and operation of offshore assets within the designated area.

Rob Hawkins, Fugro’s Commercial Director for Africa said: “Our expertise in deep-water surveying and identifying protected habitats supports sustainable and efficient offshore energy developments while minimising negative impacts on the marine environment. Fugro remains committed to the preservation of the environment, and this survey is an essential step towards achieving this goal.”

During their third quarter result presentations, Galp announced that the Namibian wells would be spudded this month. Answering questions during the presentation, CEO, Filipe Silva noted that the two wells in Namibia represented an investment of between $200 to $300 million for the overall campaign.