After completing extensive preparations at Westcon’s yard in Ølensvåg, Norway, COSL’s 2,460-ft semi-submersible rig, COSLPioneer, has set sail to begin its 18-month firm contract with Vår Energi. The agreement, which includes options extending up to 3.5 years, marks the rig’s return to Norwegian waters after years of operation in the UK. Its first task will be drilling the Kokopelli exploration well (7/1-3) in production licence 1090, located near the Sleipner field and the UK continental shelf boundary.
Following Kokopelli, the rig will embark on the Balder Phase V project, a six-well campaign set to conclude in 2026. Vår Energi is also advancing plans for the Balder Phase VI project, with an investment decision expected in 2025. Alongside COSLPioneer, COSL’s COSLProspector continues to support Vår Energi in the Barents Sea, solidifying COSL’s role as a key partner in Norway’s energy exploration and production efforts.