Strategy for Reducing Environmental Footprint of Hydraulic Fracturing Operations through Engineering Excellence and Operational Efficiency

Abstract

Abstract According to the IEA, the 1.5°C scenario hinges on reducing CO2 emissions to net zero by 2050. Energy industries will need to take a leadership role in developing sustainability development goals for this to happen. To be successful, all traditional emissions sources across our industry will need to be addressed. Hydraulic fracturing is considered one of the largest opportunities to reduce the CO2 footprint while delivering production enhancement. This paper focuses on specific strategies of reducing the CO2 footprint for hydraulic fracturing operations. In hydraulic fracturing, where the energy consumption is more than that of a drilling rig, carbon footprint reduction is critical. The CO2 reduction commitment requires early engagement and close collaboration between the operator and the service company to maximize the impact. In hydraulic fracturing, the initiative has focused on four aspects: energy optimization, where operational efficiency, resource optimization, and mixed energy sources will be the main CO2 reduction contributors; logistics optimization, including the logistics methodology, sourcing, and real-time push logistics; material conservation, including water conservation, optimization of treatment design, and utilization of alternative materials; and the technology initiative, in which various technologies available in daily life can be adopted by the oil and gas industry, including digitalization to provide real-time information. Various initiatives and technologies among the four aspects have already been implemented and successfully trialed around the world. These initiatives have not only been able to reduce CO2 emissions but have the potential to significantly reduce the cost of well delivery. These initiatives have also significant potential to boost in-country value, positively affecting local economics. Several initiatives will be presented, including their positive impact on CO2 reduction along with other values that were realized. The information presented in this paper provides insight into the implementation of a dedicated strategy to reducing CO2 emissions in a rigless hydraulic fracturing program. Several examples are provided with the direct and indirect impact as a reference for the industry to accelerate the CO2 reduction in hydraulic fracturing and other activities in the petroleum industry.