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Vaca Muerta: Operators Seeing High Cost Risk of Argentina's Cash Cow
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In recent years, Argentina's Vaca Muerta shale play has been pulling in operators who hope to tap into its massive oil / gas treasure trove. However, we are finding that the play carries a much larger price tag than similar plays in the U.S. And for some E&Ps, the high costs are taking a toll.
Costs Piling UpRoyal Dutch Shell, who intially entered the play in 2012, has recently detailed its challenges and roadblocks related to well cost and service/supply availability in the region.
Issues at a Glance: ~60% increase in well costs (compared to similar wells drilled in the U.S.) Inability to use local water sources (protected by regional laws) Limited access to sand mines for proppant Reliance on exports - having to bring in water / proppant materials via truck Lack of roadway…- ✓ Full news archive — U.S., Canada & international coverage
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