Treasures in the basement?
Untested geological formations known as ‘fractured basements’ could be hiding a vast store of hydrocarbons, but explorers need to overcome logistical challenges and industry scepticism
A West of Shetlands play being pursued by Hurricane Energy is entering a production phase that could prove crucial not just for the UK-based hydrocarbons firm, and the Scottish region, but also for industry perceptions of a reservoir type that was for decades derided as unfeasible. First oil from the fractured basement in Hurricane's Lancaster field, located along the prominent Rona Ridge basement that is home to most of its portfolio, can now proceed this year after the Aoka Mizu floating, production, storage and offloading vessel successfully connected to the early production system on 19 March. If successful, output is expected to reach around 17,000bl/d once the initial start-up phase ha
Also in this section
19 March 2026
The regional crisis highlights the undervalued role of fixed pipelines in the age of tanker flexibility
18 March 2026
Rising LNG exports and AI-driven power demand have raised concerns that US gas prices could climb sharply, but analysts say abundant shale supply and continued productivity gains should keep Henry Hub within a range that preserves the competitiveness of US LNG
18 March 2026
Risks of shortages in oil products may cause world leaders to panic and make mistakes instead of letting the market do what it does best
17 March 2026
The crisis in the Middle East has put LNG’s ability to offer security and flexibility under uncomfortable scrutiny
