Devon Energy Corporation has agreed to sell all of its Gulf of Mexico shelf assets to Apache Corporation for $1.05 billion, or approximately $840 million after tax. The agreement covers Devon's 158 blocks (including 51 producing blocks) located offshore Texas, Louisiana and Alabama.

During 2009, Devon's production from the Gulf of Mexico shelf was approximately 62 million cubic feet of natural gas and 9 thousand barrels of liquids per day. As of December 31, 2009, Devon's reported estimated proved reserves included 144 billion cubic feet of natural gas and 15 million barrels of liquids associated with the assets being purchased by Apache.

"When we first announced our plans to reposition Devon, we expected total after-tax proceeds of between $4.5 and $7.5 billion," said Larry Nichols, Devon's chairman and chief executive officer. "This sale of the remaining Gulf of Mexico assets, combined with our previously announced divestitures of $8.3 billion, ensures that we will exceed the upper end of that range. Furthermore, we are pleased to have a single purchaser for the shelf assets with the financial strength and experience of Apache."

Completion of the transaction is subject to preferential rights to purchase held by the other working interest owners in the properties as well as customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Devon plans to provide updates to guidance for 2010 production, expenses and capital expenditures as the transactions are closed.

On November 16, 2009, Devon announced plans to divest its Gulf of Mexico and international assets to allow the company to focus on its world-class North American onshore assets. The divestiture proceeds will be allocated between the acceleration of development of Devon's North American onshore properties, debt reduction and share repurchases. Upon completion of the repositioning, Devon will emerge with even more liquidity and with one of the strongest balance sheets in its peer group.

Tags: Devon Energy Corporation