Kosyu–Rogov Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element, Northwestern Russia

Abstract

AbstractThe Kosyu–Rogov Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element (CTSE) is one of the last exploration frontiers left in the European part of Russia. A sedimentary section up to 15 km thick comprises several working petroleum systems. Multiphase structural development created various trapping configurations and numerous reservoir–seal pairs. There are several mature source rocks including the world-class Domanik bituminous shale in the area. The past exploration efforts fell short of delivering the expected volumes of oil and gas reserves. This was mainly due to an underestimation of the technical difficulties related to exploration in the complex tectonic settings and an inadequate understanding of the petroleum system development. They were in unfavourable conditions for the presence of a reservoir and hydrocarbon retention. A revision of the tectonostratigraphic framework of the Kosyu–Rogov CTSE shows new high-impact exploration opportunities. The large petroleum potential of the area was confirmed by the discovery of the Nertseta oilfield, the largest oil find in Russia, in 2016.