Promising gas discoveries in Morocco boost energy security hopes

Saturday 22 March 2025 - 16:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Promising gas discoveries in Morocco boost energy security hopes

British company Predator Oil & Gas has announced unexpected gas discoveries at the MOU-5 well, located in the Guercif region of eastern Morocco. This development opens exciting prospects for the future of the kingdom's energy industry. The findings, achieved following successful drilling operations, represent a significant milestone in enhancing Morocco's natural gas reserves.

The drilling reached the Oum Er Rbia carbonate formation, the primary target of this operation, despite challenges posed by the presence of mobile salt, which led to an increase in the impermeable layer's thickness. This impermeable layer aids in trapping oil and gas, enhancing future extraction prospects.

Another surprising discovery was the identification of a quality sand layer, measuring 30 meters thick beneath the carbonates. This geological structure had not been previously observed in the area, bolstering hopes for substantial gas reserves in the region. One of the most remarkable findings was the detection of helium deposits, a rare element essential in sectors such as medicine and technology, paving the way for additional exploitation opportunities.

Despite these promising discoveries, work at the well has been temporarily suspended to conduct further evaluations based on seismic and technical data to clarify the site's full capabilities. The company also plans to initiate a concession agreement to attract new investors to support drilling operations in the area.

The Guercif permit covers an area of 4,301 square kilometers and includes four exploration licenses, with a nine-year permit period. The company received a first extension in 2024, expiring in November 2026, with a decision regarding a second extension to be made at that time.

Currently, the company is focusing on five potential biomethane gas sites identified through the MOU-1, MOU-2, MOU-3, and MOU-4 wells, with depths ranging from 339 to 1,500 meters. Testing priority is given to the MOU-3 well, which features several reservoirs suitable for compressed natural gas development.

With these promising discoveries, Morocco appears poised to take another step in achieving its strategies aimed at enhancing energy security and utilizing its natural resources to meet domestic needs while expanding its role in global energy markets.