Sub-Surface Driven Connectivity Descriptions in the Montney and the Duvernay Inform the Applicability of Single-Point Versus Multi-Point Well Architectures

Abstract

A single-point entry completion architecture has been implemented in several hydraulically stimulated resource plays across North America. The objective is to understand whether the innate properties of the rock and what we can diagnose about how it hydraulically fractures can inform the question of applicability of single-versus multi-point completion designs. Wells were treated using a single-point entry design in the Montney and the Duvernay and an assessment of well performance was carried out. Multiple diagnostic pads have been carried out over several years in both formations, including microseismic and geochemical fingerprint data allowing for a general characterization of the gross geometry and connectivity. Initial results from a fiber are available in the Montney with a single point completion design. The fracture diagnostic data was compiled and described in the context of the nine main sub-surface controls on the connectivity. In the Montney, it is relatively clear how completion intensity changes, like stage length, in single-point entry wells change the production performance outcome. In the Duvernay, there is significantly more uncertainty. This contrast contributed to the decision to treat several follow-up pads in the Montney via a single-point entry design, whereas a multi-point plug and perf completion is preferred for the Duvernay wells. Costs and stage isolation are considerations, but one other contributing explanation is that the dominantly planar fracture geometry in the Montney enables each stage to contribute proportionally, thus ensuring the stimulation distribution effectiveness from the near-to the far-field. The dry-gas area of the Montney is very stiff, with an absence of natural fractures, a paucity of faults, no containment issues and no significant frac barriers. Conversely, in the Duvernay, the inherent complexity in the fracture geometry complicates the stimulation distribution effectiveness in the far-field. Furthermore, the lower mobility of a liquids-rich hydrocarbon system probably benefits from the potentially tighter frac spacing, possible in a multi-cluster design, even with a probable increase in non-uniformity over single-point. It is hypothesized that in formations that develop complex fracture geometries, ‘putting all your eggs in one basket’ with a single-point entry design, needs to be assessed along with the other value drivers for the well architecture selection.