Title : Driving excellence in marginal field development and operations through an integrated smart strategy to unlock challenging sour oil
Abstract:
Objectives/Scope: The SMART UFR Strategy, developed by ADNOC Onshore, is a transformative approach aimed at addressing the challenges associated with marginal and undeveloped sour oil reservoirs. These reservoirs, often characterized by low productivity, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) presence, and limited infrastructure, pose significant barriers to economic development. The strategy is built on three foundational pillars: full-cycle well utility, strategic depletion of low STOIIP reservoirs, and in-house appraisal and testing optimization. The objective is to maximize well utility, reduce idle wells, and minimize capital expenditure.
Methods, Procedures, Process: The implementation of the SMART UFR Strategy followed a structured and data-driven methodology. Idle wells were identified and evaluated for re-utilization potential, with wells selected for immediate deployment. Full-cycle utility was demonstrated through wells A-35 and A-38, which were transitioned from appraisal to production, avoiding the need for new drilling. These evaluations provided critical insights into reservoir characteristics and guided completion decisions. Additionally, the strategy introduced the use of Electric Submersible Pumps (ESPs) in low STOIIP reservoirs, replacing traditional water injectors to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The workflow is segmented into four key stages:
1 Screening: Initial assessment of surface locations and inactive wells in collaboration with asset teams. This includes screening well locations from selected reservoirs within the UFR development area.
2. Surface & Subsurface Evaluation: A technical evaluation phase focused on drill ability and completion design. It also involves aligning well utilization strategies to support both Field Development Plan (FFDP) and appraisal objectives.
3. Economic Feasibility: Comprehensive appraisal of UFR targets, including CAPEX and OPEX analysis. This stage determines the economic viability of the asset and outlines production phasing.
4. Well Handover: Final transition of the evaluated well to the development asset team for production operations upon completing the de-risking activities.
Results, Observations, Conclusions: The SMART UFR Strategy delivered tangible results across multiple dimensions. Estimated savings of 3 well were achieved by avoiding new drilling in S field development.. The deployment of ESPs in low STOIIP reservoirs led to a cumulative cost reduction of approximately cost of 3 wells . Strategic depletion planning enabled ADNOC Onshore to extract value from marginal fields without extensive infrastructure investment. These outcomes validated the strategy’s effectiveness in reducing operational costs. This strategy aligns with ADNOC’s broader goals of operational efficiency, sustainability, and technological innovation, and sets a model for future appraisal strategies across the oil and gas industry.
Novel/Additive Information: The SMART UFR Strategy introduces a novel framework that combines technical rigor with operational practicality. Unlike conventional development models, it emphasizes asset re-utilization, minimizes environmental footprint, and aligns with ADNOC’s sustainability and efficiency goals. The strategy is replicable across other assets facing similar challenges and serves as a benchmark for future UFR initiatives.
