Analyses, Challenges and Solutions for the Electrification of Rigless Well Operations in the Arabian Gulf Region

Abstract This paper identifies challenges and offers solutions for deploying electricity-powered equipment in rigless and well completion operations in the Arabian Gulf region. It aims to replace diesel-powered systems, reducing Scope 1 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating environmental impact through the adoption of more sustainable energy sources for oil and gas operations. This study analyzes commercially available equipment and deployment challenges, as well as power and fuel systems in the Arabian Gulf. It examines regional regulations, logistics, and installation requirements. A comprehensive review of international best practices in the US and China informs the research, which draws on online resources, industry reports, and site visits to oil and gas fields and operations in these regions, adapting global insights to the local context and identifying opportunities for improvement. The paper's analysis yielded seven primary electricity-powered equipment and their corresponding power requirements, namely Slickline, Eline, coiled tubing, fluid pump, HP frac pump, sand conveyor, and site facilities including accommodations. The research comprehensively identified all available power and fuel options in the region, determining the most suitable choices for each application and location. These options encompassed the accessibility of grid power, requisite equipment, and procedures for connection, as well as portable energy storage systems and diverse types of fuel for operating field gas turbines, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and wellhead gas. Each of these power and fuel alternatives presented unique challenges pertinent to specific areas, such as regulatory hurdles for grid connectivity, fuel gas transportation, or treatment of wellhead gases. Ultimately, the paper concludes that the rapid deployment of electricity-powered equipment in Arabian Gulf fields is feasible, enabling the reduction or elimination of Scope 1 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions and facilitating an energy transition; nonetheless, regional collaboration is essential to overcome these challenges and devise cost-effective solutions. This paper presents novel findings based on a 3-year comprehensive analysis of the region. It incorporates insights from US and China field visits, manufacturer engagements, and attempted deployments of electricity-powered Eline units in the region. The paper considered integrated systems to operate these equipment using different power sources and fuels to overcome specific areas challenges and power availabilities.