Recent Developments at LLOG Exploration’s Who Dat Asset
U.S.-headquartered LLOG Exploration, a key subsidiary of Harbour Energy, has recently faced challenges at its Gulf of Mexico (GOM) asset, the Who Dat project. A minor riser leak was detected in February 2026, impacting production from several wells. However, proactive measures, including the initiation of a sidetrack well, are helping to stabilize output as the company works through a structured remediation plan.
The Riser Leak and Its Impact
The riser leak discovered at Who Dat has resulted in an approximate reduction of 15,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) from gross production across seven wells. This situation has prompted LLOG and its joint venture (JV) partners, including Karoon and Westlawn, to strategize a meticulous remediation plan. With LLOG holding a 40% operational stake, Karoon and Westlawn each control 40% and 20%, respectively.
Currently, the focus is on safely removing and analyzing the affected riser, with this phase slated to commence in the third quarter of 2026. The JV remains optimistic that they can mitigate future risks and restore production capabilities.
Sidetrack Well Contributions
In a bid to counterbalance the production loss from the affected wells, the JV initiated operations to sidetrack the A1 production well in early April 2026. This sidetrack well commenced production on July 13, 2026, and is progressively ramping up, now yielding about 1,700 boepd net revenue interest (NRI). This early success is crucial as it offers immediate relief to output levels while the JV continues with remediation efforts on the riser.
Moreover, the partnership has plans for another sidetrack, the G1 ST, which they expect to spud in the second half of 2026, depending on technical assessments and the necessary approvals. Approval could introduce another wave of production, further supporting the financial health of the project.
Future Outlook for Who Dat
According to Karoon’s CEO, Carri Lockhart, the JV is strategically focused on moving forward. Lockhart emphasized the positive contribution of the A1 sidetrack while assuring that the operations surrounding the riser leak are being handled with care. She stated, “Our current base case assumes one or both E risers will need replacement, with E manifold production expected to resume in the fourth quarter of 2027.” This proactive planning underscores the commitment to sustaining production amid unforeseen challenges.
Financial Performance and Market Conditions
The recent operational challenges have had a noticeable impact on financial performance. The average realized price for Who Dat liquids—including oil, condensate, and natural gas liquids (NGLs)—rose to $101.93 per barrel, marking a 55% increase from the previous quarter. This increase is closely aligned with global oil price trends and improved differentials for Mars-benchmark crudes. Conversely, the average realized gas price has fallen to $4.08 per thousand cubic feet (mcf), a 47% decrease, primarily due to seasonality impacting natural gas demand.
In the second quarter of 2026, Who Dat’s gross production amounted to 1.03 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe), down from 1.67 million boe in the first quarter. The average production rate dropped to 11,360 boepd from 18,300 boepd in the previous quarter, reflecting the ongoing adjustments following the riser leak.
Overview of Operations
Who Dat, located in a water depth of 800 meters off the coast of Louisiana, initially commenced production in 2011. The project processes its produced oil and gas through the Who Dat floating production system (FPS) before transporting the resources via common carrier pipelines. The site’s established infrastructure is essential for navigating the production disruptions that arise from unforeseen incidents like the recent riser leak.
Ongoing Opportunities
Despite the current setbacks, the joint venture remains committed to advancing additional production opportunities within the asset. LLOG, Karoon, and Westlawn are collectively exploring methods to enhance performance and minimize downtime, illustrating a strong collaborative spirit within the JV. The collective expertise and adaptive strategies are crucial as they navigate this period of uncertainty while maintaining a focus on long-term operational stability.
Through diligent planning and robust partnerships, LLOG Exploration’s Who Dat project is poised to face these challenges head-on, aiming to restore and potentially expand production capacity in the years to come. The commitment to comprehensive remediation efforts and proactive sidetrack strategies illustrates the resilience and forward-thinking of the involved parties.