Kosmos Energy has announced the commencement of oil production at the Winterfell development in the Green Canyon region of the US Gulf of Mexico.  

The initial two production wells in the first phase are now operational and increasing production levels. 

Currently, a third well is being drilled and is due to be completed by the end of the third quarter of 2024.  

The trio of initial wells is anticipated to yield a gross production rate of around 20,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd). 

Beacon Offshore Energy, which holds a 35.41% stake in the project, serves as the operator of the Winterfell project, while Kosmos Energy owns a 25.04% working interest.  

The consortium of partners also includes Westlawn GOM Asset 3 Holdco with a 15% stake, Red Willow Offshore with 12.5%, Alta Mar Energy (Winterfell) with 7.55% and CSL Exploration with 4.5%. 

In January of this year, Beacon Offshore Energy made the final investment decision to progress with the development of the deep-water Winterfell project.  

Discovered in 2021, the Miocene-aged Winterfell field lies at a water depth of approximately 1,600m. 

The development strategy for the field involves a subsea tieback of around 21km to the existing host platform.  

After the successful drilling and completion of the first two wells, along with the subsea hook-up in April 2024, the project experienced some delays, leading to first oil production occurring later than initially planned. 

With five wells planned for the first phase, the Winterfell development is expected to contribute around 100 million barrels of oil equivalent.  

There is potential for increased production from future development phases.  

Kosmos Energy chairman and CEO Andrew Inglis said: “The start-up of Winterfell is another significant milestone for Kosmos as we continue to deliver the projects to achieve our growth targets by year-end 2024.  

“With high-margin barrels, low carbon intensity and a quick expected payback, Winterfell has the right characteristics for Kosmos’ portfolio. Kosmos is eager to continue developing the Greater Winterfell area, which we believe has significant future upside potential.” 

The Winterfell unit encompasses Green Canyon blocks 899, 900, 943, 944, 987 and 988, with additional prospects in adjacent blocks where Kosmos also holds interests.