YPF and Quintana-TSB to begin Vaca Muerta exploration in Mendoza

YPF and the Quintana-TSB consortium are set to begin exploratory drilling in the Mendoza region of the Vaca Muerta formation starting in October. The initiative involves five pilot wells: three to be drilled by YPF and two by Quintana-TSB, aimed at studying rock behavior in the subsurface.

During the Energy Summit, Mendoza Governor Alfredo Cornejo and Energy Minister Jimena Latorre highlighted the province's potential, noting that approximately 30% of the Vaca Muerta formation is believed to be located in Mendoza. Quintana-TSB has already invested $4 million in 3D seismic studies to confirm the maturity and pressure of the formation. If exploration results are favorable, Quintana-TSB has a contingent investment plan exceeding $1 billion, following an initial exploration commitment of $44 million.

YPF CEO Horacio Marín stated that these efforts aim to reach a production peak in the Malargüe area by 2032. Marín also noted that Mendoza’s new mobile royalty law serves as a key incentive to attract investment and allow the region to compete with larger production areas. The company plans to move quickly on these projects over the next 18 to 24 months, utilizing capital market financing.