A tectonostratigraphic framework for the Mid-Norway region

The tectonostratigraphic analysis presented here aims to establish a broad stratigraphic framework within which the likely distribution of both reservoir and source rock intervals within the deep-water Voering and More basins can be evaluated. In terms of hydrocarbon potential, the Devonian to Triassic interval can be effectively discounted by its extreme depth of burial across most of the study area. The Middle Jurassic is interpreted to provide a potential reservoir target in the Gjallar Ridge area. The Cretaceous is seismically mappable across the region and has been divided into five tectonostratigraphic sequences. Late Cretaceous reservoirs are considered to offer targets in the Nyk High area. Six tectonostratigraphic sequences are described within the Cenozoic succession. Paleocene reservoirs are interpreted to offer targets over both the Ytterskallen and Ormen Lange areas of the More Basin. Source rock maturity is critical for exploration success. Mapping shows the Late Jurassic/earliest Cretaceous Spekk Formation to be overmature over most of the area, though the presence of possible DHIs indicates the probable presence of major gas accumulations in the region. Only on the western flank of the Vigrid Syncline does the Spekk shallow sufficiently to lie within the potential oil window. It is concluded that the region has the potential to become a significant new hydrocarbon province for the 21st century.