Aker BP has agreed an up to eight year, US$30 million framework contract with Schlumberger for acquisition of 4D seismic data offshore Norway.
The framework contract is for four years, with two, two-year options. It includes WesternGeco marine acquisition of 4D seismic data over the Aker BP-operated fields Alvheim, Bøyla, Skarv/Snadd and Ula in 2017.
“With this framework contract, Aker BP is fortifying our position as an operator with significant ambitions for growth and value creation on the Norwegian Shelf,” says SVP Reservoir, Ole-Johan Molvig.
This year’s extensive seismic acquisition effort starts in May, and will be carried out by the WG Amundsen seismic vessel.
“We will be using the best seismic technology available on the market; IsoMetrix marine isometric seismic technology. The result is data quality that surpasses what we have been able to achieve previously,” says Molvig.
The 4D seismic method requires acquisition of seismic data in the exact same positions as a previously recorded survey. This allows changes in the reservoir to be compared and recorded over time.
The dense measurements recorded by IsoMetrix technology improve this comparison even further by revealing the most subtle variations in the reservoir fluids and subsurface pressure.
“We use this information to make decisions about how we will further develop the field by drilling new production wells, or through measures for injecting water or gas to improve recovery through existing production wells,” says Molvig.
Gathering knowledge is an important key for improving the recovery rate, maximizing value creation, and thus extending field lifetime.
“The extensive seismic acquisition on our own operated fields is yet another confirmation of Aker BP’s stated ambition and commitment to the Norwegian Shelf – also during a period of decline and reduced activity in the industry in general,” says Molvig.
The framework contract was awarded following a comprehensive review of several bidders based on criteria such as HSE, commercial factors and technology, where the latter factor was of particular significance.