Aberdeen-based drilling contractor KCA Deutag has said it was looking to invest in new rigs after winning its second contract in the Polish onshore shale gas market.
The contract, with Gora Energy Resources and due to start imminently, will see KCA Deutag initially drill one exploration well in northern Poland but includes an extension option for further wells.
It is the second contract the firm has won in Poland, the centre of an emerging European shale gas industry, following a deal with a Marathon Petroleum Poland – part of Marathon Oil.
KCA Deutag chief executive Holger Temmen said: “This is very exciting coming so soon after our entry into the emerging Polish market and the European shale gas sector with the Marathon contract.
“The potential of unconventional oil and gas reserves in Europe is truly significant.
“We anticipate further new rig investments to address the shale gas market as projects move from exploration to appraisal and full development.”
Gora Energy Resources is a subsidiary of San Leon Energy.