GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — ExxonMobil has commenced exploration drilling at the Lukanani-2 well in the Stabroek Block, marking another significant step in the company’s ongoing search for hydrocarbons offshore Guyana.
Drilling operations at Lukanani-2 began on June 11 and are scheduled to continue through July 31, 2025. The well is being drilled by the MODU Stena Carron drillship, with a fleet of up to ten support vessels operating in the area. The site is located approximately 110.5 nautical miles (204.4 kilometers) off the Guyanese coast, within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, and covers an area of one square kilometer.
This latest campaign follows the successful discovery at Lukanani-1 in 2022, where ExxonMobil encountered approximately 115 feet of hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone in water depths of over 4,000 feet. The Lukanani-2 well aims to build on these findings and further assess the resource potential in the southeastern portion of the prolific Stabroek Block.
ExxonMobil operates the Stabroek Block with a 45% stake, alongside partners Hess (30%) and CNOOC (25%). Since 2019, ExxonMobil has rapidly expanded production from the block, with output from the Liza 1, Liza 2, and Payara developments now exceeding 650,000 barrels per day. The Yellowtail project, expected to come online this year, will further boost Guyana’s status as a leading oil producer.
As the Lukanani-2 exploration proceeds, all mariners have been advised to avoid the area and exercise caution due to increased vessel activity. The outcome of this well could play a pivotal role in shaping future development plans and further solidify Guyana’s position in the global energy landscape.
