Technology Focus: Gas Production (November 2020)

Abstract

When two black swans - weak industry fundamentals and a global pandemic - collided midair, a downward spiral became a freefall. Accompanied by the human tragedy of illness and financial hardship, industry employment shrunk at a pace not seen since 1986 and caused a contraction to the lowest international rig count since Baker Hughes started keeping records 43 years ago. How has this upheaval affected the demand for the natural gas our industry supplies? Not very much. Essential goods and services rose to the top of our attention in 2020, and natural gas has proved to be essential and reliable. Gas-fired electricity usage actually increased as stay-at-home orders nullified the economies of scale provided by shared workspaces. Natural-gas-powered delivery trucks bring things to us as we avoid crowded stores. While office buildings are kept cool or warm for a small number of onsite workers, work-from-home employees now demand a comfortable home 24 hours a day rather than just evenings and weekends. Worldwide demand is marginally lower because of curtailed economic activity, but that decline has been matched by the decrease in associated gas from shut-in oil wells. While the selected papers were written before these developments, they each show the spirit of innovation and dedication to improving processes that will be required to rebound fully and continue to deliver the energy our world needs. Engineers thrive on making more from less, and this month’s paper selections highlight efforts to improve the efficiency of gas-production operations throughout the world. Natural-gas suppliers continue to provide uninterrupted service despite fewer people and smaller budgets. Like other essential workers, they are heroes and deserve our sincerest thanks.