Germany 's De Dea and US corporation ConocoPhillips have agreed to jointly develop the Aguada Norte and Norte Sur blocks in Argentina 's Vaca Muerta . The blocks hold significant unconventional oil and natural gas resources in the prospective Vaca Muerta shale formation. Under the deal , both firms will hold 50 % of Bandurria and 50 % of Aguada , with Gas y Petroleo del Neuquen retaining 10 % . Wintershall , which retains all operating licences , is conducting safety tests in both blocks , following successful pilot projects .
Germany 's De Dea and US corporation ConocoPhillips have agreed to jointly develop the Aguada Norte and Norte Sur blocks in Argentina 's Vaca Muerta . Under the deal , both firms will hold 50 % of Bandurria and 50 % of Aguada , with Gas y Petroleo del Neuquen retaining 10 % . Wintershall , which retains all operating licences , is conducting safety tests in both blocks , following successful pilot projects .