11.   The directorate also initiated two programs that promote the pooling of information and resources to reduce exploration costs.

12.   The easiest way to fall into AMT is to claim large deductions for state income taxes or oil and gas exploration costs.

13.   Until last month, oil-service stocks had surged for about two years as new technology cut exploration costs.

14.   Without a boost from higher prices, company performance depends on controlling operating and exploration costs, and avoiding major problems.

15.   British Petroleum will pay for the exploration costs and, if drilling follows, costs will then be shared, Interfax said.

16.   Furthermore, experts note that if oil is found, the exploration costs may be sky-high because of the rocky ocean floor.

17.   Paterson said the contract allowed for recuperation of exploration costs but he added he could not divulge the details of the profit sharing arrangement.