Jodari-1 DST Results

Ophir Energy plc

Jodari-1: Tanzania's First Deep-water Offshore Flow Test Confirms World-class Reservoir Quality

London, 18th March 2013: Ophir Energy plc ("Ophir") announces the successful completion of its Drill Stem Test (DST) on the Jodari-1 well in Block 1, Tanzania. This is the first deep-water, offshore production test in Tanzanian waters and is a significant milestone in the Tanzanian LNG export project and meeting our Domestic Market Obligations. Ophir holds 40% of Blocks 1, 3 and 4; the BG Group operates with 60%. 

The Jodari-1 DST flowed at a maximum (equipment constrained) rate in excess of 70 mmscf/d and demonstrated exceptionally high deliverability from the Tertiary-aged reservoir. Ophir management estimate that the result of this DST supports well designs with potential flow rates of up to 200 mmscf/d.

Successful completion of the Jodari appraisal programme with excellent flow rates and extremely low draw-down pressures has validated the resource potential of the Jodari Field, confirmed the viability of deviated development wells, and reaffirmed the likelihood of excellent productivity from future development wells. The Ophir-BG Joint Venture will now continue the exploration and appraisal programme with a DST on the Mzia-2 appraisal well.

Nick Cooper, CEO, commented:

"This excellent flow rate is an important milestone in delivering Tanzania's first LNG development. The test results confirm the Jodari reservoir's world-class quality; and the potential for the field to underpin the LNG development. We will continue to chase the significant resource potential of our 40% stake in Tanzania Blocks 1, 3 and 4."

Ends

For Further Enquiries please contact:

Ophir Energy plc +44 (0)20 7290 5800

Nick Cooper, CEO

Stephanie Prior, Senior Commercial Manager

Brunswick Group +44 (0)20 7404 5959

Patrick Handley

Elizabeth Adams

Notes to Editors

Ophir Energy (OPHR.LN) is an African focussed, upstream oil and gas resource company which is a member of the FTSE 250. The Group's headquarters are located in London (England), with operational offices in Perth (Australia), Malabo (Equatorial Guinea), Dar es Salaam and Mtwara (Tanzania), Port Gentil, (Gabon) and Nairobi (Kenya).

Ophir is the 6th largest deep-water acreage holder in Africa, present in four key emerging sub-Saharan exploration themes, and the largest net acreage holder in offshore East Africa.

For further information on Ophir, please refer to www.ophir-energy.com.