Initial production flow rates are expected to be in the range of 2-4 million cubic feet per day. This rate will be fine tuned, according to the wells performance over the first month of production.

Negotiations have also begun with potential gas purchasers, Amadeus said.

“Given the distance of this well from the pipeline grid owned by our primary purchaser in the Lavaca County area, it is possible that the Hoffer gas may be marketed to a different purchaser,” the company said.

“This will add to the time taken to bring the well online, but may be achieved within 60-90 days.”

Hoffer-1 is the 13th commercial success in 15 wells drilled to date in the Lavaca County program.

Amadeus, which holds a 50% interest in the project with operator Trio Consulting & Management, said this discovery has significantly upgraded several other prospects in the immediate area.

The rig has now moved to the Renger Sasson ‘A’-1 gas well location, in which Amadeus holds a 25% stake.

In another part of Texas, the company said its Morgan’s Bluff-17 exploration well in Orange County has reached a total target depth of 8800 feet (2682m) and logging has started. Amadeus holds a 70% interest in this well.