Game Changer in Subsurface Flare Reduction

Abstract

Abstract In the fast-changing world of energy transition, The Subsurface (SS) Flare reduction project in the Gas Directorate (GD) of Petroleum Development of Oman (PDO) was kicked off beginning of 2021 to ensure continuity in growing our business and generating revenue while reducing the carbon footprint of our operations. The two main value drivers of this project were firstly to minimize HSE impact and reduce GHG emissions, in line with PDO goal towards net zero by 2050, and secondly to maximize hydrocarbon recovery. This is a first of a kind project in PDO as the GD is leading the way towards addressing subsurface flaring. We started the journey by mapping out the different flare contributors (post-frac, well testing, Flow Back Loop (FBL) units and Halite Clean out), quantifying their impact and identifying the big actors. Then, we worked with the different teams from Engineering, Well Services and Operations to build a 5-year work plan with a clear roadmap to reduce subsurface flaring by 60% in 5 years. In the first year (2021), we managed to reduce SS flaring by 37%. This reduction was accomplished by introducing two efficiency improvements which included a successful Flareless Halite Cleanout trail with a full-scale implementation plan, and the utilization of test separators in line with SMS units to verify the flared figures. This resulted in a 50% correction factor to the data on hand. Going forward, the focus will be on maturing the new technologies that will further reduce SS flare such as Green Completion, Well Head Compression (WHC) units, mobile flare gas recovery, etc. Given the complex nature of this project and the multidisciplinary efforts from Petroleum Engineers, Operations, Engineering, Well Services and New Technology, constructing a successful working plan to address this issue required effective collaboration and thinking outside of the box to find innovative solutions. As a result, we constructed a funnel of efficiency opportunities with a clear timeline including Green Completion, WHC, pre frac hook up, and mobile flare gas recovery units. Additionally organizational tools for enhancing efficiency were applied such as PPS (practical problem solving) and Goal Deployment methodologies. Such energy efficiency projects that reduce the GHG emissions with a streamlined process and identified involved stakeholders, help to better position the organizations to tackle the climate challenges. Moreover, they help to establish a better understanding of the current impact on climate and keeps an open eye for any new technology opportunity that can be materialized to reduce or eliminate GHG emissions. (Robinson & I. Russo, 2013)