Govt to offer 6 shale gas blocks soon

The Indonesian government will soon offer six working areas of shale gas, probably early next year, through regular tender.

The six working areas are North Tarakan, Berau, Kutai I and Kutai II, which are located in Kalimantan, and the other two are in South Sumatera, namely Rama and Shinta.

The offer is based on the survey and evaluation of shale gas conducted by the energy and mineral resources ministry?s directorate general of oil and gas in 2011 and 2012.

Further information can be pursued through the directorate of upstream business development at Plaza Centris, 7th floor in Jl. HR Rasuna Said Kav-B-5, Jakarta 12929. Telp: (021) 5268910, ext 139,145,169 and fax: (021) 5269151.

Indonesian shale gas potential is estimated at 574 TSCF, which is higher if compared to coalbed methane (CBM) at about 453,3 TSCF and natural gas at 334,5 TSCF.

The development of shale gas is stipulated in the energy and mineral resources minister?s regulation, Permen ESDM No. 05/2012 on the procedures of development and management of non-conventional gas.

Editing by Benget Besalicto Tnb