A new development from researchers in Newfoundland and Labrador will improve safety in our existing offshore oil and gas developments, while creating additional revenues and protecting the environment.
This research project will allow for the safe inspection of flowlines in the oil and gas industry, helping to extend the production life of existing oil developments, and possibly adding royalty revenues from oil reserves that otherwise would be undeveloped.
C-CORE, which provides research-based advisory services and technology solutions to improve safety and efficiency in challenging environments, is developing an apparatus that will allow for the observation and breakdown of solids called gas hydrates composed of water and gases, which form inside a pipeline. The development of gas hydrate formations can cause blockages, resulting in expensive delays and possible damages.
The first phase of this project by C-CORE was approved for $490,000 through the Innovation and Business Development Fund, which focuses on growing and diversifying our province’s oil and gas supply and service capabilities, to position Newfoundland and Labrador globally as a preferred location for oil and gas development. Petroleum Research Newfoundland & Labrador (PRNL) is also a partner for this project.
Quotes
“The preparation of wells and flowlines for production during cold well start-up and shut down can be costly and potentially harmful to the environment. This innovative project will make this process much safer – for operators, workers and our ocean environment. It also will play a role in extending the life of our existing offshore oil and gas developments, while creating savings for companies and additional revenues for the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“C-CORE is very pleased that this important project was selected by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. Working with M. A. Procense and Memorial University, as well as in partnership with PRNL, the project will impact current and future production operations and the development cost of marginal fields. The concept is novel and can be applied in production systems offshore Canada and other offshore jurisdictions worldwide. We are thrilled to continue to bring these types of innovations to our offshore oil and gas industry, making our resources competitive on the world stage.”
Paul Griffin
President and CEO, C-CORE
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Media contacts
Eric Humber
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777
erichumber@gov.nl.ca
Freeman Ralph
C-CORE
709-691-7632
Freeman.Ralph@c-core.ca