In a significant development for Australia’s energy sector, new seismic technology is paving the way for more efficient gas field optimisation amidst the country’s transition to renewable energy.
This innovative approach addresses the pressing need to maximise existing gas production while navigating the complexities of environmental regulations and technical challenges.
The optimisation of gas fields in Australia faces numerous hurdles, including high costs, technical complexities, and stringent environmental regulations.
Cameron Grant, Chief Commercial Officer at STRYDE, emphasises the potential of onshore fields, stating: “While onshore fields in Australia are notably smaller compared to offshore basins, they still harbour substantial potential for both domestic and international gas markets.”
To overcome these challenges, a collaborative approach involving government entities, developers, operators, and environmental advocates is crucial.
This cooperation aims to identify solutions that balance environmental preservation with sustainable resource exploitation.
At the forefront of this technological advancement is Pad3D, a bespoke production enhancement solution developed by Oceania Geo in collaboration with STRYDE.
Brendon Mitchell, Managing Director of Oceania Geo, explains the cost-effectiveness of this approach: “Using high-quality seismic to de-risk production optimisation is a no-brainer. It costs approximately $100k-$250k to acquire seismic data for a 3-5 square kilometre multi-well pad development, where horizontal wells cost $2 million or more each.”
The STRYDE Node, a key component of Pad3D, is the smallest and most cost-effective seismic sensor on the market.
This compact, wireless technology allows for rapid surveying of areas with existing infrastructure while minimising land disturbance.
A recent pilot project conducted by Oceania Geo, STRYDE, and Earth Signal Processing for Galilee Energy demonstrated the viability of Pad3D.
The project achieved impressive results:
- Field operations were completed in just seven days with a six-person crew
- Over 800 STRYDE Nodes deployed daily
- Fast-track processing delivered within seven days of the last node harvest
Mitchell praised the outcome, stating: “The final data resolution surpassed expectations, staying comfortably within budget constraints, and successfully navigated the intricacies of an innovative yet technically complex basin design.”
This technological breakthrough not only benefits the gas industry but also opens new exploration opportunities in Australia’s renewable sector, including mining and geothermal energy.
As the country balances its energy transition, innovations like Pad3D play a crucial role in optimising existing resources while paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The success of this seismic technology marks a significant step forward in Australia’s efforts to meet growing global energy demands while adhering to environmental standards and transitioning towards renewable energy sources.
