Project 80KOPD: A Geologist's Perspective to a Successful Production Ramp-Up Effort.

Abstract

Production ramp-up can be a tricky exercise, with a repertoire of challenges and surprises, which can threaten the proposed percentage of success. These challenges largely stem from paucity of data, change in reservoir dynamics, impact of unauthorized third-party activities and the compliment of skill sets/experience in the team. In addition, reservoir models are in some cases, ineffective tools for reservoir management and prediction. This is especially true in assets that are heavily bunkered by crude oil thieves and in geologically complex reservoirs with very few wells. Therefore, models must be updated with recent data and new understanding, to remain useful and accurate. Of great importance to a successful production ramp-up effort is assembling an integrated team of experienced sub-surface professionals and field executors. Unfortunately, in some teams and companies, the position and opinions of Geologists are often overlooked, resulting in mixed outcomes. Geologists do not only think in "millions of years" but can add value and contribute significantly to the overall project objective. This paper explores and explains the role of a geologist, as part of an integrated asset management team, in the successful ramp-up of production from 45KOPD to about 80KOPD, without drilling a single well or executing any rig activity. It also showcases some work methodologies adopted in the evaluation of candidate wells and the power inherent in adopting an integrated subsurface approach.