PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – The Trinidad and Tobago government, Wednesday, said it welcomed the announcement by Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Ltd, the oil and gas exploration and production company, of the successful drilling of the Carapal Ridge-3 Development Well.
Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Ltd. is a subsidiary of the Canadian-based Touchstone Exploration Inc. It is currently the largest independent onshore oil and natural gas producer in Trinidad, with a proven track record of growth since its 2010 founding.
Energy and Energy Industries Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal said this was the first well to be drilled in the onshore Central Block since 2006.
The ministry said that Carapal Ridge-3 was drilled to a depth of 8,200 ft and successfully penetrated the target Hererra sands, which were found to be gas-bearing. It said completion operations and testing of these sands are currently underway, with production from this well expected to be tied into the Central Block gas processing facility during the first quarter of this year.
“Carapal Ridge-3 also discovered gas-charged Karamat sands, which are being evaluated as a standalone prospect for potential development,’ the ministry said, adding that since acquiring the Central Block in May 2025, Touchstone has evaluated the remaining resources, resulting in their decision to drill Carapal Ridge-3.
It said three other development opportunities are being evaluated for drilling, incorporating learnings from Carapal Ridge-3.
“The successful drilling supports the Government’s thrust to bring much-needed natural gas to market. The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries looks forward to continued collaboration with Touchstone and other operators to develop and grow our energy sector for the benefit of the citizens of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,” the statement said.
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