"Gazprom considers it possible to increase explored gas reserves in eastern Russia by 6 trillion cubic meters," Alexei Mastepanov, advisor to the deputy chairman of the holding's board of directors, told an economic forum in Siberia, adding that in Krasnoyarsk Territory alone proven gas reserves could grow by 2.9 trillion cu m.
He also said Gazprom was planning next year to quadruple funding for geologic exploration in Krasnoyarsk Territory, to about $140 million as compared with $33 million in 2005.
Gazprom holds three licenses in Krasnoyarsk Territory, two for geologic exploration and one for natural gas production. Mastepanov said Gazprom was planning to drill six exploration holes in the Beryambinsk sector, 12 in Omorinsk and 11 in Sobinsk sectors.
"This will enable Gazprom to begin large-scale gas production in Krasnoyarsk Territory," he said.
