"We have started. The procedures started two days ago. The drilling rig is now on the seabed and as I’ve said we expect to have the first results around next December," said Energy Minister Yiorgos Lakkotrypis speaking to the press on the sidelines of a conference on hydrocarbons exploration safety.

Regarding the details of drilling, Lakkotrypis said that the drilling rig is estimated to reach 5.5 Km. from the surface of the sea. The rig is expected to reach that depth in a few weeks.

The Minister will monitor the drilling directly through special software installed in the Ministry of Energy.

Lakkotrypis, said that there was also a program of visits to the rig, by government technocrats from the Ministry of Energy, as well as from other ministries, to follow the developments at first-hand.

"Each visit will be multilateral, and will enable our people to gain experience of such activity. We use technology and we are constantly updated, but also there will be monitoring on the spot "he said Lakkotrypis.

Minister ofEnergy also pointed out that the drilling procedures in Cyprus’ EEZ set safety and environmental protection as a first priority.

Consortium ENI/KOGAS has been awarded exploration licenses in Cyprus’ EEZ, namely in Blocks 2, 3 and 9.

ENI completed 2 seismic surveys, and is planning to drill 6 wells in the coming 18 months.

Exploration and appraisal drilling in Block 12 of Cyprus’ EEZ by Noble Energy & Delek has shown estimated reserves of 3.6 tcf to 6 tcf, namely 5 tcf. Further exploration is planned by the consortium.

Source: Famagusta Gazette