Bermudian-domiciled Nabors Industries has contracted with Vista Energy to add a third drilling rig, aiming to accelerate Vista´s development of an oil and gas field in Vaca Muerta, southern Argentina.

Vaca Muerta is the world’s second largest shale deposit.

Nabors will deploy a high-spec rig with cutting-edge technologies and is scheduled to commence operations in the second half of 2024.

In support of Vista's plan to reduce the carbon footprint of Vaca Muerta operations, there is potential to electrify this equipment.

Earlier this year, using Nabors-provided technology, Vista electrified the first drilling rig in Vaca Muerta, Nabors PACE® F24, which is entirely powered by renewable energy.

Nabors chairman, president and CEO Anthony Petrello and CFO William Restrepo hosted the contract signing at Nabors’ Houston offices with Vista cofounders COO Juan Garoby and CFO Pablo Vera Pinto.

Mr Petrello commented: "By expanding our relationship with Vista and deploying advanced technology, we are enhancing operational excellence while increasing our commitment to a region that we consider to be a world-class resource.

“We want to thank the Vista team for their leadership and early adoption of technology, which sets a high standard for advancement and performance in Argentina."

Mr Garoby stated: “The addition of a third drilling rig will provide us flexibility to accelerate our activity plan in Vaca Muerta.

“We forecast to put into production between four to eight wells by year-end, in addition to the 46 previously announced. We are pleased to carry out this project in collaboration with Nabors, which represents a significant extension of a strategic relationship during Vista´s early days, anchored in our One Team programme.”