Following on from the recovery of oil from its neighbouring PEP 150 permit, the company believes the Trough has the potential to host significant accumulations of oil rather than gas.
The seismic survey is designed to provide detailed coverage over a number of identified prospects and leads in the Portland Trough including the Cobboboonee, Warrain, Nelson and Henke prospects.
The survey, known as the Nelson 3D seismic survey, will use 3D seismic acquisition and processing techniques to gain the maximum amount of seismic information possible, while confining the seismic vibrators to the network of existing roads and tracks in the area of interest.
Results from subsequent interpretation and mapping are expected to take a further 3 to 4 months.
Essential Petroleum holds 100% of PEP 151 and is fully funding the survey.