Using Intelligence to Improve Efficiency in Remote-Oilfield Operations: Case Histories

Abstract

Unfortunately, most of today's oil and gas fields are not located in our backyard, or in easily accessible locations for that matter. The "easy oil," as many call it, is long gone so now we are forced to explore new frontiers, from ultradeepwater areas, to the Arctic Circle, deserts, or deep inside tropical jungles. These remote and inhospitable environments present a series of logistical challenges to oilfield operators. Accessing these areas, establishing the necessary infrastructure, and mobilizing personnel and equipment required to operate an oil field can be costly, risky, and time-consuming. On the other hand, in today's modern business world, technology is employed on a daily basis to overcome geographical boundaries or obstacles and make us more efficient. Thanks to telecommuting, millions of workers do not have to drive to the office: the office comes to them. Thanks to collaboration through virtual teams, individuals do not need to work in the same physical space nor meet face to face to be able to accomplish tasks; which saves millions of dollars in cost and time associated with business travel. This paper presents a series of case histories demonstrating how intelligent completion and production systems can be used to apply the same telecommuting and virtual team concepts to solve some of the logistical challenges faced in today's remote oilfield operations. An outline of general considerations and recommendations is also proposed as a guide for individuals planning to implement these technologies.