The discovery of new gas reserves in Sindh has given a much-needed boost to Pakistan energy sector. Mari Energies Limited (MPCL), previously referred to as Mari Petroleum, has declared a huge gas discovery in the Soho-1 exploration well, Sujawal Block. The finding does not only underline the possibility that lurks under the soil of Pakistan, but it also carries a diffuse of hope that energy security can be achieved in a nation that relies much on foreign fuel sources. With the ever-rising prices of energy in the international market, local production is needed as never before. The breakthrough provides a new direction in national energy planning.

Specifications of the Discovery in Soho-1 Well

Soho-1 well located in Sujawal Block encountered a spectacular 30.01 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) gas flow rate at choke size of 64/64” well head pressure of 1,482.5 psi. Also, the well produced 18.84 MMSCFD with 32/64 choke, which provided an even higher pressure of 3,447.8 psi. Such production rates are encouraging and prove that the well is commercial. The engineers and field teams think that the output can still be optimized to make it even higher. The success justifies the further investment in under-explored geological formations.

Lower Goru Formation: Dispelling the Myth

This newest find is significant in that it was made in the Lower Goru formation- an area that was thought to be non-productive. This alters the geological concept of the Sujawal Block and gives avenues to more exploration. Companies had avoided this formation in preference of more established layers over the years. The success of MPCL is however breaking this assumption and opening up a new interest in such zones again. That may mean additional exploration effort in areas that have been overlooked by the industry.

Mari Energies Limited: The Single Operator

Mari Energies Limited is leading in this discovery as the only operator holding 100 percent working interest in Sujawal Block. The re-branded energy giant remains a critical explorer and developer of native resources. Their concentration on innovative ideas and sustainability is also making them a force in the Pakistani upstream oil and gas sector. Using the contemporary seismic technology and the advanced methods of deep well drilling, MPCL has established a new standard in the local exploration. This demonstrates the worth of independent operators in trying towards growth of a sector too.

Greater Implication on the National Energy Landscape

The new gas find may be a game-changer in the energy matrix of Pakistan as the country will lessen its reliance on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG). It can now reduce the import bill of the country and relieve the foreign exchange reserves since local reserves are now being exploited. The domestic supply also stabilizes the price of gas to both the industries and the consumers. In the long run, this has the potential of boosting the economy and minimize the energy deficit, particularly in the winter and summer seasons. Energy independence is no longer a far-off ideal- it is getting to be a strategic objective.

Further Potential Testing Underway

MPCL has already placed on record that it is in the process of testing other formations in the Sujawal Block. These additional tests will assist in comprehending the total scope of the discovery and may potentially lead to identifying more productive areas. Reconnaissance teams are encouraged by initial results back on these tests. Should this succeed, this would change Sujawal into a big production center within Sindh. Further success will also enable more investors to support the exploration of energy projects throughout Pakistan.

Another Major Discovery in Waziristan Block

This Sindh discovery follows closely after another significant discovery in the Waziristan Block, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Spin Wam-1 well is yielding approximately 20.485 MMSCFD of gas and 117 barrels of light crude oil daily. This twin production reinforces the economic premium of the well and increase overall field production considerably. Such repeated finds are confirming that the future of energy in Pakistan is in the unexplored and underexplored areas. Every new success story creates confidence on energy exploration prospects in the country.

The Joint Ventures Foster Exploration

The MPCL is operating as a partner with other energy companies in the Waziristan Block where OGDCL is leading with 35 percent share and Orient Petroleum with 10 percent share. This partnership strategy enhances exploration strengths and diversifies finance risk along with increasing technical support. The joint ventures such as these enables resource pooling, sharing of knowledge and efficient operations. They further make sure that even remote and technically challenging regions are not left behind. These alliances are turning out to be the mainstay of exploration in the convoluted energy landscape of Pakistan.

One Step on the Way to Energy Independence

Pakistan has been experiencing energy shortage for a long time and the country has been largely dependent on fuel imports. Such finds as the ones in Sindh and Waziristan might gradually change this situation. The lesser dependence on imported energy enhances national security and stabilizes the local markets. Moreover, the exploitation of native resources produces employment and strengthens local economies. These efforts, with strategic planning and regulatory support can open the doors to complete energy independence.

Conclusion

The Sujawal Block in Sindh has changed the history of energy sector in Pakistan with the discovery of gas. The find has a potential of cutting down the energy importation habit of the country since it has a production capacity of over 30 MMSCFD with further tests planned in the future. These finds, combined with the recent success in Waziristan, point to the untapped potential in Pakistan. With additional discoveries and development of the reserves, the country will be able to create a strong and independent energy infrastructure. These local breakthroughs could not have come at a better time, or in a world where energy security is at the center of attention.