The exercise which began two weeks ago involves brief simulated production to determine the potentials of the wells and flaring of released gas in isolated locations. On completion of the tests, the wells will be hooked up to the Gbaran-Ubie central processing facility which will process the gas for domestic and export markets. One of the recipients of the gas is the Bayelsa State gas turbine at Imiringi.

In line with industry regulations, SPDC had secured permit from the Department of Petroleum Resources and engaged communities before commencing the well tests.

Project lead Gbaran-Ubie Phase 2, Calistus Iwu said: “The testing of the gas wells is standard international practice and the exercise will last about four weeks. As we explained to the communities, the flares from the tests for each well typically lasts only a few days.”

The Gbaran-Ubie project has significantly helped to reduce operational flares in Gbaran,  Kolo Creek,  Etelebou and Zarama since it achieved first oil/gas in June 2010, and continues to contribute to development in the communities by providing infrastructure (power, water, roads, etc) and capacity building for youths in the community.