The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) has announced the resumption of development drilling in the Central Block with the commencement of the Carapal Ridge-3 Development Well. This marks the first development well drilled in this block since 2006.
Energy Minister Dr. the Honourable Roodal Moonilal and Minister in the Ministry, the Honourable Ernesto Kesar, have extended their congratulations to Touchstone on this significant milestone for the onshore province. Touchstone, which currently produces approximately 21 mmscf/d, operates the Central Block under an Exploration and Production Licence following its acquisition from Shell Trinidad Central Block Limited on May 16, 2025.
Since the acquisition, Touchstone’s evaluation of remaining resources has led to a four-well development campaign. Production from Carapal Ridge-3, the campaign's first well, is expected by February 2026. If all four wells are successful, Central Block production is forecasted to exceed 50 mmscf/d.
Notably, through collaboration with the MEEI to accelerate energy sector activity, drilling operations began three weeks ahead of schedule. The Ministry welcomes this renewed investment and activity in onshore natural gas fields, which is vital for bringing new supply to market and revitalizing the energy sector for the benefit of Trinidad and Tobago.