Publications

The Lengguru Fold Belt of the Bintuni Basin has been explored intermittently since the mid-1930;. Initial exploration focused on oil seeps that could be traced to steeply dipping anticlinal structures within the Plio-Pleistocene-aged Steenkool and Miocene-aged Klasafet Formations. In 2015, KrisEnergy completed the acquisition of 300 km of new 2D seismic data and 12,000 km2 of aerogravity and magnetic data. KrisEnergy also embarked on an extensive geologic sampling and mapping program that resulted in an improved understanding of the local surface geology. The targeted exploration objective in the Udan Emas PSC is the proven Jurassic Roabiba Formation sandstone with the Cretaceous Ekmai Formation and the Pliocene Steenkool Formation sandstones as secondary targets. The Roabiba Formation has been penetrated in numerous wells throughout the Bintuni Basin, and is the primary reservoir within the giant Vorwata - Wiriagar and Asap Fields. Seismic data and surface geological studies clearly show and support the deposition of the Cretaceous Ekmai Formation sandstones outcropped in the east and a large, late-stage back thrust which formed after the deposition of most of the Pliocene lower Steenkool section. The structural traps in the frontal folds of the Lengguru Fold Belt are expected to be charged by gas generated from deeply buried coals, carbonaceous shales, and possible lacustrine shales in the Permian and Triassic sedimentary section clearly indicated in the surrounding Bintuni Basin wells and surface outcrops. Prospectivity has been identified in faulted-anticlines, with vertically stacked reservoir targets in several structures. Some structural reconstructions controlled by available dry hole analysis results, are being made to understand the hydrocarbon trapping potential. These reconstructions, along with all surface, subsurface, potential field data, and regional knowledge have been integrated to highlight the most suitable area within the Udan Emas PSC for further exploration. Multi-TCF gas potential with proven and potential hydrocarbon plays are the sweetener for explorationists to seek discoveries in this unique frontier area.