Integrating Solar Farm for Sustainable Oilfield Operations

Abstract Objective PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP) is currently the operator of S1 oilfield located in Kampheangphet province, Thailand. Previously, the electricity used in operating the S1 oilfield was primarily generated by in-plant Gas Turbine Generators (GTG) fueled by natural gas. Recognizing the importance of sustainable energy development, PTTEP initiated "Lan Sang Arun project", a 9.98 MW solar farm designed to provide green energy to support the operations of the S1 oilfield and reduce carbon emission. Method and Procedure The project involves building a 9.98 MW solar farm and the related infrastructure to supply green energy to support S1 oilfield operations. Integrating the solar farm into the S1power management system presents unique challenges. Unlike most conventional solar farms that connect to either the grid or the user, Lan Sang Arun plant is a special case because it connects to both the in-plant gas turbine generators and the public grid. The power management system required modifications to enable smooth power control between the solar farm, the GTGs, and the grid. Results, Observations, Conclusions The solar power plant was successfully constructed and started operation in July 2023. The renewable energy generated from an Sang Arun solar plant are now used to support the operation of S1 oilfield, reducing the natural gas consumption by approximately 0.5 million cubic feet per day, which lead to carbon reduction of 13,000 tCO2e per year. Novel/Additive Information Lan Sang Arun solar farm is the first project in Thailand to supply electricity from a renewable source to support petroleum operations. It contributes to both PTTEP's and Thailand's net zero greenhouse gas emission targets and serves as a showcase for oilfield electrification in Thailand.