Well operations have commenced at the Hickory-1 well, with well bore preparations complete and perforation of the Upper SFS zone to begin ahead of fracking and flow testing.

The Hickory-1 well is located within 88 Energy’s Project Phoenix acreage, directly adjacent to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and the Dalton Highway.

After the Upper SFS zone is tested, the company plans to test the SMD-B zone.

Each zone will be independently isolated, stimulated and flowed to the surface using a nitrogen lift to assist in the efficient cleanup of the well.

The entire program for each zone is expected to take approximately 10 days, however, 88 Energy may choose to adjust the schedule during the flow back program to ensure optimal data collection.

An extensive suite of data will be captured, including but not limited to downhole and surface fluid samples, downhole pressure and temperature data, and surface pressure and temperature data.

Flow rates of oil, gas and water will also be recorded.

Upon completion of testing the Upper SFS reservoir, operations will then move to evaluate the SMD-B reservoir.

Experienced members of the Pantheon Resources staff are being made available to share their relevant recent and extensive knowledge of multiple flow tests on adjacent acreage.

The company said it expects these will give valuable insights during flowback operations.

The entire testing program is scheduled for completion in March 2024, with the company due to provide an update upon the completion of the Upper SFS flow test.