The completion of drilling at the ‘Electra’ field in Block 5 of Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has been pushed to next week due to minor delays caused by geological pressures affecting the drill rig, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou said on Saturday.

Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Papanastasiou explained that while the drilling – conducted by the ExxonMobil-Qatar Energy consortium – was initially expected to conclude by Friday, additional reinforcement was required due to unexpected pressures.

“The delay is due to the need for extra well casing, as the drill rig is encountering pressures beyond the initially expected levels,” the minister said.

He added that preliminary indications of any potential findings are anticipated next week.

Providing further details, Papanastasiou stated that the drilling operation has currently reached a depth of approximately 6,800 metres from the water’s surface, with a planned total depth of 7,500 metres.

“At the current pace, the drill progresses at about 20 metres per hour and more than 200 metres per day,” he said.

“Based on these conditions, it will take another three to four days to determine whether there is a discovery,” he added.