Exoma Energy has spudded Saltern-1, the first well of 12 in its Australian exploration programme.
Using the Atlas No.1 rig, the firm spudded the well in its ATP 1008P permit in the Galilee Basin, Queensland.
The well will be drilled to total depth of 900m, with a primary target of coal seam gas in the Permian Betts Creek and Aramac coal measures, and shale gas in the Toolebuc formation as a secondary target.
The coal measures will be cored for desorption testing, and the selected coal intervals may be drill stem tested to measure permeability.
The firm drilled the Saltern-1 well under a joint venture with CNOOC Galilee Gas.
Exoma has a 50% interest in its five Galilee Basin permits covering 26,840 square kilometres
CNOOC will contribute the first $50m of exploration expenditure to earn a 50% interest in each permit.
