Santos has successfully completed the Quokka-1 appraisal well on Alaska’s North Slope, revealing a high-quality reservoir that could extend the company’s production runway in the region.
The Quokka-1 well, which was spudded on January 1, has reached a total depth of 1,459 metres. Technical analysis has confirmed approximately 44 metres of net oil pay within the Nanushuk formation.
Following a single-stage stimulation, the well flowed at a rate of 2,190 barrels of oil per day.
Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher said results confirm Quokka as a significant addition to the company’s portfolio.
“The Quokka-1 results demonstrate the exceptional quality of the Nanushuk reservoir and confirm our geological assessment of this significant accumulation,” the CEO said.
“Located strategically to the east of our Pikka phase 1 development, Quokka represents another high-return opportunity that strengthens our position on the North Slope and extends our development runway in Alaska for years to come.”
Santos holds a 51 per cent operating interest in the Quokka Unit, with partner Repsol holding the remaining 49 per cent.
The company is now evaluating a two-drill-site development for the area, with a comprehensive 3D seismic survey scheduled for the 2026-2027 winter season.
The success at Quokka comes as Santos nears a milestone at its Pikka Phase 1 project. The facility is now mechanically complete, and fuel gas has been successfully introduced.
First oil is expected within the coming weeks, with production forecast to ramp up to a plateau of 80,000 barrels per day by mid-2026.
Santos remains committed to disciplined investment in Alaska, delivering value for shareholders while responsibly developing world-class resources on the North Slope that are essential to meeting global energy needs.
Santos is also progressing its Barossa gas project in the Timor Sea. After addressing technical issues with the floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) compressors, the company expects to recommence production around April 18.
