Achieving data-driven efficiencies with integrated planning analytics

Abstract

The logistical challenges of drilling in the Surat and Bowen basins, and the high operational costs allied to an oil price downturn, is forcing the CSG to LNG players in Queensland to reinvent their delivery models. The concept of a drilling factory has been the holy grail of the oil and gas industry for many years, and many local operators have turned their attention to the lessons learned by the North American shale players. These companies, with virtually no increase in capital costs, were able to improve time to drill, wells per rig and total distance drilled by 50–150% in fewer than five years. This revolution has been achieved not only with the advent of improved drilling technology but also the use of data-driven productivity and automation. Leveraging the experiences of North American companies, local operators are embracing the use of analytics to boost operational efficiencies and improve the safety of their operations. APLNG, for example, has used analytics to integrate multiple aspects of planning and operations to optimise field development for future phases of the project. As the volume of wells continues to increase, more supply chain related issues will require mitigation. Analytics solutions can assist not only in the isolation of wellbore-related non-productive time issues and reduce drilling cycle times for individual wells, but also to use the best tools and techniques in only the best parts of the field.