RE: 22-23p18 Dec 2025 09:40
With special thanks to Geodesrock Petroliumgeology Reddit.
Having read this article I’m beginning to wonder exactly what the next RNS will be saying….seems like State of Alaska will need to verify commerciality first.
The Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (AOGCC) regulates discoveries, focusing on proving commercial viability, well testing (flow tests), establishing reserves, and submitting detailed applications for Unitization or Pool Designation, requiring technical data showing significant hydrocarbons (oil/gas) and economic potential under AS 31.05 and Alaska Admin Code Title 20, to get official declaration and regulatory approval for development.
Key Steps & Requirements:
Initial Discovery: A well is drilled, encounters significant hydrocarbons, and initial tests (like drill stem tests) suggest a commercial discovery.
AOGCC Notification: The operator must promptly notify the AOGCC about the discovery.
Flow Testing & Data Submission: Conduct extended flow tests, analyze samples, and submit detailed reports to the AOGCC, proving sustained production rates.
Reserve Estimation: Provide engineering studies estimating recoverable reserves (oil and/or gas).
Application for Designation: File formal applications (e.g., for pool or unitization) with the AOGCC, demonstrating the discovery's commercial significance and proposing a development plan.
AOGCC Approval: The Commission reviews the data and, if satisfied the discovery is commercial, issues orders approving the pool/unit and setting spacing, which officially recognizes the discovery.
Governing Rules:
Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Act (AS 31.05): The foundational law.
Alaska Administrative Code, Title 20 (AOGCC Regulations): Details specific rules for testing, unitization, spacing, and reporting. [OP NOTE: The Ahpun Field contains the Alkaid and Talitha UNITS]
In essence, the AOGCC requires proof that a discovery isn't just a show of oil/gas, but a substantial, economically viable resource worthy of state regulation and development.
SUMMARY
When Pantheon, as Great Bear Pantheon LLC., determines the Dubhe-1H is a DISCOVERY Well, they will file the above information with the State of Alaska. The State will issue "Approval" and simultaneously or as close timewise to filling with the State and receiving approval, the company will issue an RNS. Not before.
In the meanwhile, they may issue Operational Update type RNSs, but will not and cannot declare a DISCOVERY until the State is satisfied. The Discovery will publish the Test Results - not before.
>> No companies or entities connected with the Gasline Project will have information contained in the announcement of a DISCOVERY prior to the Official Filing with the State.
As stated in the RNS of 08 October 2025: "The Company expects to release further information, in line with its regulatory requirements, as the programme proceeds." This includes the above State of Alaska Regulatory Requirements.
-ends-
Source: https://