Wellsite serviced power model for the CSG industry

Abstract

CD Power (CDP) was challenged by a coal seam gas (CSG) operator to develop a wellsite power supply solution that would lower the operators running costs ($/kWh) whilst improving availability from low 90% to above 97% power availability. Furthermore, the operator sought a supply, install and maintain approach – resulting in a cheaper, more reliable outsourced energy solution. Typically, energy supply to wellsites in Australia consists of expensive inflexible and slow to install high voltage (HV) cable reticulated to each well. As wellsites deplete, these HV cables cannot be rerouted, resulting in expensive loss of capital. These limitations prompted operators to seek a highly mobile and cost focussed solution. CDP was contracted to deliver an innovative program of power solutions for a major CSG operator at 50 wellsites in 2017. The contract is to design, manufacture, install and maintain mobile 3-phase power supply units for wellsites. These units are powered by gas reciprocating engine generators and solar battery modules with synchronising switchboards. The full wellsite serviced power contracting model is a first of its kind for the CSG industry and is based on delivering high power availability and collaborative field service performance. CDP anticipates that providing a high level of technical innovation and superior performance, they will see the model extended across the industry and challenge the traditional economics around HV wellsite power. This paper will address the challenges faced in moving from a traditional segregated power model to a performance-based model at a time when the power industry is surrounded by innovation.