PHE Analysis Of Thousands Of Wells, ITB Observer: Impossible To Derive Idle Well

Illustration. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - Energy observer of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) Wawan Gunawan A Kadir assessed that PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) as Pertamina's Upstream Sub Holding, cannot neglect idle wells. Moreover, he continued, currently PHE is also conducting an analytical study related to the condition of these wells.

"Thousands of wells are analyzed. That's why we value that PHE is still aware of the idle wells to be optimized. Either work on it yourself if possible or through cooperation like KSO. But the important point is, the well is not abandoned just like that," Wawan told the media today, Wednesday, October 4.

According to the Professor at ITB's Geophysics Engineering, analysis is intended to determine the condition of idle wells. Thus, it is known whether the well can still be optimized or not.

But it's not simple. Even those that can be optimized still have to be analyzed, including to determine what technology and tools are used to optimize each well. Because, each well has a different characteristic.

"So, idle wells cannot be optimized with only one technology. You have to sort out the technology and look at the reservoir conditions again," he said.

According to Wawan, the technology that is widely used to increase production is fluid/gas injection, known as Enhance Oil/Gas Recovery (EOR/EGR), for example using CO2, water, sulfactants, and so on.

Wawan added, the most important concern in optimizing old wells, including pressure levels that are expected to be able to push oil to the ground.

"If there is no pressure or the pressure weakens, then pressure maintenance must be carried out," he explained.

However, Wawan is optimistic that the optimization of idle wells will contribute to increasing national oil and gas production. You can do this, PHE manages its own or cooperates with partners.

In addition, Wawan also believes that the optimization of the old well can move the economy of an area and increase national oil production.

"Yes, that's right. For example, from wells that can be optimized, PHE is worked on or collaborated with regional-owned enterprises (BUMD), it will increase production. In addition, of course, economic activity will occur," Wawan concluded.