Issue: April 2020
Special Focus
Augmented and virtual reality systems reduce rig time usage and mitigate uncertainties, while improving accuracy of rig surveys for offshore solids control and fluid management installations.
Operators are using cloud-based well barrier illustrations, with the two-barrier philosophy, as the logical starting point to manage their well integrity and reduce risk.
The three Railroad commissioners are faced with what may be the major decision of their professional lives—whether to prorate or not. And, in tandem, the fate of many industry companies and individuals’ jobs could be hanging in the balance.
Guest Commentary: Railroad Commission can help to solve overproduction in tandem with other entities
Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) Chairman Wayne Christian’s sudden April 29 declaration against prorationing appears to run counter to what a majority of Texas E&P professionals would like the agency to do on May 5, according to results of a new World Oil survey.
Columns
We must move toward our energy future, not retreat to the energy past
One word
The sky is falling or contango?
Norway facing crises
A wave of change rolls forward
And the winner is…
How about some good news?
Features
It has become clear that achieving emissions targets and meeting the world’s growing demand for power will require a mix of generation from cost-competitive renewables and cleaner-burning hydrocarbons—most notably natural gas.
Price rout, pandemic add exclamation point to uncertain future
Extremely difficult oil market conditions demand very creative, flexible solutions to counteract predatory actions by state actors and protect infrastructure. This is particularly true in the U.S., yet one industry association seems to be working overtime to stifle discussion of some potential remedies.
On April 7, World Oil posted an editorial, which discussed the potential for the U.S. government to take action in the oil market, and API’s role in the situation. Here, now, is API’s response.
To operate a well is to operate responsibly—but more must be done on sustainable design and balanced portfolios to achieve a net-zero future.
Gains, losses and a world on edge
Coronavirus and crashed oil prices have had an effect on the province’s activity, but operators continue to try to press forward on a number of projects.
Wellbore placement accuracy remains critical to successful offshore operations, particularly where there is a high risk of wellbore collision. Companies implementing gyro technology can mitigate such risks and improve the separation factor between their wells.
A new producibility index, which identifies light/heavy oil components in tight-organic shale reservoirs, can be used to determine the best horizon to land a lateral section to improve ultimate recovery.
John Kerr, Baker Hughes' vice president, engineering and technology, oilfield, discusses the operational and financial benefits of electrifying subsea systems.
New algorithms, from an innovative seismic toolbox, generate a different approach to stratigraphic and structural event studies by combining large datasets, to identify hidden trends and subtle changes around geologic features.
What does it take for both U.S. federal and Texas state regulators to intervene and take action? There has been enough diddling around for weeks on end by both groups.
News & Resources
High-torque, high-flow drilling motor completes longer laterals faster, with greater control
