Business Opportunities The Focus in Houston
Exploration and business opportunities are the focus for the Nova Scotia delegates at the 2003 Offshore Technology Conference being held in Houston this week (May 5-8).
"The Nova Scotia delegation has been very busy and the response at our booth has been tremendous," said Energy Minister Ernest Fage. "Industry representatives from all over the world are stopping by our exhibit to ask questions and learn more about the opportunities in Nova Scotia's offshore. This is what we've come for -- to promote Nova Scotia's offshore potential."
The minister made presentations today, May 6, to the international oil and gas industry and to the Houston business community on Nova Scotia's exploration activity and investment opportunities. Nova Scotia's offshore has 57 exploration licences totalling $1.56 billion in work commitments. Exploration activities continue with a number of seismic acquisition programs being conducted in 2003 and eight to 10 exploration wells expected over the next 12-18 months.
Twenty-six companies and organizations, representing Nova Scotia's expertise in engineering, fabrication, supply and services, training and business development are exhibiting with the Department of Energy and the Offshore/Onshore Technologies Association of Nova Scotia (OTANS).
"The conference gives Nova Scotia companies a chance to meet many potential customers in one place, at one time," said OTANS chair, Jay Abbass. "Being here as a team helps Nova Scotia make a bigger impression and promote our industry and our province in this very competitive market."
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Nova Scotia Business Inc. and the Greater Halifax Partnership are part of the Nova Scotia delegation being led by the Department of Energy and OTANS. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. also has a booth at the conference. Other Nova Scotia companies are also attending the conference on an individual basis.
Founded in 1969, the Offshore Technology Conference is the world's foremost event for the development of offshore resources in the fields of drilling, exploration, production and environmental protection.