PetroUrdaneta operates three fields in the Maracaibo Basin region in northwestern Venezuela. Shareholders include PDVSA (60%) and OE&P (40%). The field’s last reported production is over 1,000 bopd. Upon the obtaining of proper authorizations, we look forward to working closely with the joint venture partner to enhance the operations with potential investments in the area. Maha’s plan includes well recompletion and workover, with the upside of a potential production and consequent commercialization of the existing associated natural gas reserves in the area. According to independent energy research company Rystad Energy, the fields in Novonor’s portfolio in Venezuela has more than 8 billion barrels of oil in place. Rystad Energy underlined that the estimates in Venezuela are connected to significant uncertainty.

“Maha has previously communicated its intention to continue with ambitious and value-creating global M&A – by targeting mature oil and gas fields. PetroUrdaneta has vast reserves and a large stock of inactive wells, meaning opportunities for rapid ramp-ups through small interventions of shut-in wells at low investment costs,” said Kjetil Solbraekke, CEO of Maha Energy.

About the transaction:

• Maha to pay EUR 4.6m for an exclusivity period of up to 9 months. During this period, Maha and its advisors intend to perform the necessary due diligence to confirm the financial, legal, regulatory, and operational feasibility of the proposed transaction and obtain necessary approvals for the signing of the definitive documents and relevant agreements, including but not limited to the prior approval of the Venezuelan Oil Minister.
• Maha would pay an additional EUR 4.6m in case it decides to extend the exclusivity for an additional 12 months, or upon the execution of the relevant definitive documents.
• Thereafter, Maha has a call option to acquire shares or quotas representing 60 percent of OE&P’s holdings (price: EUR 1.00).
• In the absence material adverse effect (“MAE”) and in the event of exercise of Maha’s 60 percent-call option, Maha to pay a premium of EUR 18m in instalments, from the 2-, 3-, 4-year after the Maha’s exercise its 60 percent call option.
• At any time during the two years following the closing, Maha has a call option on the remaining 40 percent of Partner B – taking Maha Energy’s total stake up to 40 percent of PetroUrdaneta.

Venezuela has the largest proven oil reserves in the world. It comprises more than 300 billion barrels, equaling 17,5 percent of the world’s entire reserves. On October 18, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury (OFAC) temporarily authorized transactions with certain sanctioned parties in Venezuela, including PdVSA, through midnight of April 17, 2024. The Venezuela General License 44 can be extended if conditions remain favorable. Hence, although there was no US person involved in the transaction, this may change in the future, considering General License 44.

“The acquisition is in line with Maha’s ambition to pioneer and generate value to shareholders, as we reinforce our strategy of inorganic growth at attractive low entry multiples. Maha acknowledges the sensitive nature of the acquisition and operations in Venezuela and will never compromise on its commitment to global standards and best practices. We are, therefore, fully committed to being transparent, acting responsibly and adhering to all rules and regulations. Furthermore, Maha intends to actively contribute to surrounding communities through financial initiatives and by utilizing local contracting wherever possible,” said Kjetil Solbraekke.