Production Optimization of Shenzi Field in the Deepwater Gulf of Mexico

Abstract A 20% increase in production rate was achieved through a production optimization program in the Shenzi field in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico at little to no cost. The Shenzi Field lies approximately 120 miles from the Louisiana coast in the Gulf of Mexico. It was discovered in 2002 and first oil was produced in 2009 from the Shenzi TLP. In 2012, the production engineering, surface engineering and operations teams initiated a production optimization program to maximize the production from existing well stock. Production optimization was achieved through a number of key activities including: advances in asphaltene management, gas lift and well configuration optimization, minimum bottom hole pressure reduction and deferral reduction. Using integrated production modelling as the primary evaluation tool, each opportunity was evaluated technically and economically. Asphaltene management was improved through real time detection of asphaltene deposition, which allowed adjustment on inhibitor rates to reduce cost and timely treatments. Automatic well configuration modelling allowed for optimized production scenarios and gaslift injection rates. Validating completion limits ensured drawdown on wells were maximized. Development of more efficient well test programs ensured accurate well data while reducing deferrals. Field production was increased by 20% by executing these activities for minimal additional cost. This paper summarizes a novel use of integrated production modelling techniques in real time in order to evaluate and implement key optimization activities. A variety of data will be presented including the identification of opportunities using modelling outcomes, optimization process and production improvement realized.