Offshore Oil and Gas Plugged and Abandoned Well Monitoring Using Small Scale Marine Energy

Abstract The study explores the feasibility of utilizing Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems collocated with deepwater oil and gas facilities to power monitoring activities for plugged and permanently abandoned (PA) offshore oil and gas wells in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). As offshore oil and gas operations expand, the need for sustainable monitoring solutions for PA wells, which may release hydrocarbons, may become critical. Current regulations do not mandate long-term ongoing monitoring post-PA, presenting an opportunity for innovative approaches. This research evaluates the potential of OTEC, a renewable marine energy technology, to provide continuous, dispatchable power for such monitoring systems. The study models an OTEC system collocated with an oil and gas platform, assessing its capability to power long-range autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) shuttled to the relevant locations for periodic surveys of PA wells. The findings suggest that while OTEC can technically support PA well monitoring, logistical challenges such as and economic viability remain. The study underscores the need for further research and investment in OTEC technology to enhance its economic competitiveness and integration with offshore operations. This approach not only aids in addressing potential PA well hydrocarbon release concerns but also offers a model for other offshore monitoring applications, including subsea geologic carbon dioxide (CO2) storage projects.