How can you optimize well spacing to maximize production and minimize costs?

Relevant production, engineering, geoscience, and seismic data must be incorporated into a sophisticated multivariate model, so that optimal lateral distances to nearby wells can be calculated. Using robust data analysis tools enables engineering team to generate variable plots that pave the way for identifying important trends and gauging the impact of variables like wellbore separation distance, well age and production history, and geological characteristics such as rock properties and fault location. In parallel, creating a production prediction (sweet-spot) map enables rapid, visual analysis of key factors such as production, water cut change, well separation, reservoir depletion, and reservoir quality.

Reservoir Modelling assists in determining the best location for wells. With advanced computing technologies, models can be run faster for different parameters and field cases. This enables the identification of the optimal solution. By using history matching, the models can be adjusted to match real-world conditions. Additionally, sensitivity studies of various parameters, including statistical toolkits, provide additional insights to users. The accuracy of predictions can be improved by introducing the element of probability.

Calculating the impact of infill wells on the production of existing wells is indispensable for economic evaluation. By making some adjustments to key variables, production profiles could be compared before and after the addition of proposed infill wells. Similarly, the changes in water cut for existing wells, as a valuable indicator of well productivity, could be analyzed. Finally, by reviewing acreage maps (which represents both potential new well sites and existing wells) side-by-side, the most promising places to drill new wells, either to maximize new production or boost existing production, are identified. This translates into maximum overall ROI in terms of bbl/day.

Employ real-time monitoring systems to continuously assess well performance and reservoir conditions. This dynamic data can inform adjustments to well spacing in developing phases of a field. In a complex offshore field, we implemented a system of downhole sensors & surface telemetry to provide real-time feedback on reservoir pressure and production rates, allowing for iterative adjustments to our drilling program based on actual field performance, optimizing recovery while managing costs effectively. Analyze production data from existing wells to identify areas within the field where infill drilling could enhance recovery without the need for extensive new infrastructure. This strategy can be particularly cost-effective in mature fields.