In the oil and gas industry, understanding drilling activity by provider, location, and specific rigs is crucial for identifying market trends and operational strengths. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a data analysis process aimed at uncovering the most active drilling providers, their primary operating counties, and their most frequently used rigs.
Mewbourne Oil Company drilled a total of 76 wells this year, which is 13 fewer wells compared to the same period last year.
Continental Resources has drilled a total of 78 wells so far this year, reinforcing its position as a key player in the oil and gas sector. This represents an increase of 18 wells compared to the same period last year.
In a significant step towards expanding its operational footprint, New Height Energy, LLC has acquired multiple Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) air permits from SM Energy Company. These permit transfers mark a strategic transition, ensuring responsible and efficient resource development across key production areas in Howard County, Texas.
Sydri Operating, LLC has taken a significant step forward in expanding its operational footprint through the acquisition of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) air permits previously held by Crimson Energy Partners IV LLC. This strategic move underscores Sydri’s commitment to enhancing development and production (DP) assets across key South Texas counties, including Frio, Dimmit, and La Salle.
H&P drilling has completed 709 wells year-to-date, with the highest activity in Texas (404 wells) and New Mexico (177 wells). XTO Energy Inc. leads with 128 wells drilled, followed by OXY USA Inc. (62) and Devon Energy (58). The most active rig is H&P 329, while Lea and Eddy counties in New Mexico see the highest drilling concentration.
The U.S. oil and gas industry saw a slight dip in drilling activity last week, as Baker Hughes reported a one-rig decline, bringing the total national rig count to 592. This marks the first reduction after five consecutive weeks of additions, signaling a potential stabilization in drilling activity.
As of this year, a total of 120 wells have been drilled by Cactus rigs.
Patterson Drilling has had an active year in the U.S. so far, with a total of 440 wells drilled across multiple states. Patterson Drilling continues to play a vital role in U.S. oil and gas development, with its strongest presence in the Permian, Williston, and Appalachian basins. With Chevron and Mewbourne Oil leading the way in activity and Eddy County emerging as the most drilled region, the company remains a key contributor to the industry’s momentum in 2025.
ExxonMobil’s expansion in the Permian Basin took center stage during CERAWeek 2025, where executives highlighted how technology is reshaping operations to maximize efficiency and production. Following its 2024 acquisition of Pioneer Resources, ExxonMobil has solidified its position as the largest producer in the Permian Basin, with 1.3 million barrels per day (bpd)—accounting for over 16% of the basin’s total production.
