Drilling in the deepwater Foum Assaka block offshore Morocco has concluded, with the well to be plugged and abandoned after failing to hit commercial levels of hydrocarbons.

Partner Fastnet Oil and Gas said that the FA-1 well targeting the Eagle prospect reached total depth of 3,820 m (12,529) but failed to hit pay dirt.

Kosmos Energy operated the well, which was regarded as a potential play-opener and drilled to test a salt diaper play in the Agadir Basin. “The well has also provided key seismic calibration information and the well results will now be integrated into Kosmos’ ongoing petroleum system analysis; in particular, the assessment of charge and reservoir play risks, as well as the evaluation and ranking of trap types ahead of the next tests of this petroleum system in 2015 and beyond,” Fastnet said.

Just previously Fastnet completed a farm-out deal for South Korean investor SK Innovation to acquire 9.375% equity in the Foum Assaka block for $20.4 million, which includes carrying Fastnet for its share of coasts on a first well up to a gross of $100 million.

Kosmos operates the block with 29.925%, partnered by BP with 26.325%, SK Innovation with 9.375% and state company ONHYM the remaining 25%. Foum Assaka features water depths ranging from 300-2,100 m (985-6,890 ft).

Offshore