Demonstrating a Cost-Efficient and Sustainable Bitumen Extraction Process
The multilateral well technology pilot at ConocoPhillips Canada’s Surmont steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) oilsands production facility demonstrated innovative methods to enhance efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Alberta’s oilsands. The project was funded through ERA Call #3: Industrial Efficiency and focused on drilling multilateral wells from the same wellbore, enhancing bitumen recovery and reducing costs with limited environmental footprint.
The multilateral well technology (MLT) involves drilling multiple lateral extensions from a single main borehole to increase the wellbore’s contact with the reservoir. By creating multiple lateral extensions from a single wellbore, the technology recovers bitumen from wedge-shaped zones between existing SAGD well pairs that would otherwise remain untapped. This method is also a cost-effective solution as it avoids the high costs of drilling new standalone wells and building surface infrastructure. Furthermore, because this technology does not require drilling new standalone wells, it can be integrated into both new developments and retrofits of existing operations, providing flexibility for a wide range of SAGD scenario. Most notably, the technology reduces the steam required to recover bitumen, reducing the GHG emissions of the operation because it requires less steam to be produced.
Adjusting Multilateral Well Technology to Cope with Initial Installation issues
This operation demonstrated several key take aways for future installations. The project experienced early complications, such as liner issues and challenges with cold temperatures during drilling. The project also encountered a high friction zone due to a muddy section of the well, leading to cold temperatures and inability to push the liner completion in the MLT leg all the way to planned total depth. From this, the decision was made to reduce the liner length. Due to the shortened MLT leg section compared to the original plan, the colder temperatures in the area required the wellbore to be warmed up prior to attempting to put the system on production.This challenge helped to inform future MLT installations and emphasized the importance of adapting strategies to site-specific conditions.
What’s next?
Since this project’s completion in 2022, MLT has gained significant traction in Alberta’s oilsands industry, with recent developments underscoring its growing adoption. The project successfully demonstrated the feasibility of the technology, cost savings and saleability. The Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) continues to oversee and approve such projects, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and contribute to the province’s energy production goals. Overall, the successful implementation of MLT in Alberta reflects the industry’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in oil extraction processes.