Abstract
Trinidad and Tobago’s onshore acreage has seen many stages of development. Currently, most onshore fields are well into their mature phase with the application of various forms of artificial lift being applied. Secondary recovery, through water- flooding, has been used in some fields with limited success whilst tertiary recovery methods, namely steam injection, have been more successful. These projects have been few and far between since there is a significant amount of acreage still to be considered for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). An analysis of historical data has suggested that the application of modern day EOR screening, reservoir characterization tools and simulation would address some of the uncertainties that posed problems in the past.
An increasing number of mature oilfield acreage is being leased out by the state to private investors/operators. These entities must be prepared to efficiently exploit these mature blocks by optimizing current production operations, performing recompletions, in-fill drilling but most importantly by adding significant reserves through EOR projects. Many modern considerations within the feasibility stage through to health, safety and environment application must now be adhered to, for successful approvals from government regulators.
This paper provides a detailed outline of the different stages and processes that companies can follow or modify, to suit their reservoir management style, in pursuing successful EOR outcomes. This paper also addresses the importance of EOR screening, project management and surveillance techniques. Processes and recommendations developed from this work can be applied by any oilfield company who wishes to begin or expand their EOR project.
