Emerald Energy Plc - 13 April 2005

Drilling Report

Emerald is pleased to provide the following update:

The Company has completed the drilling of Vigia #1, an exploration well some 11 km to the east of the Campo Rico field, to test the hydrocarbon potential of a structure identified by seismic acquired in 2003. The well was drilled to a depth of 11,120 ft.

During the initial drill stem tests, the well produced 16 degrees API crude oil from two separate zones. Under natural flowing conditions the well produced at a rate of 440 bopd from the Une sand and at a rate of 260 bopd from the Lower Gacheta sand.

Approval will be sought for a long-term production test of Vigia #1 that will permit early production from this well. The long-term test production will be carried out using a downhole pump that will increase the production rates achieved during initial tests significantly. Following the completion of Vigia #1 for long term testing, the Company will use the Parker 222 drilling rig to drill the Vigia #2 appraisal well.

Alastair Beardsall, Emerald’s Chairman, said: “The discovery of the Vigia field, just 11 km away from the producing Campo Rico field, will give Emerald a significant increase in oil production and an opportunity to use the experience we have gained in the development of the Campo Rico field.”

“bopd” means barrels of oil per day

Enquiries: Alastair Beardsall 020 7925 2440