Mature Fractured Reservoirs Can Be Repurposed for Gas Storage

This paper discusses studies conducted on two California offshore fields that may be abandoned in the near future. These studies examined the feasibility of repurposing these fields for offshore gas storage by using their reservoir voidage and existing pipeline facilities. These storage sites could offer a significant alternative to the current onshore sites located in highly populated urban areas of the state.

Introduction

California has been a major oil-producing state since the turn of the 20th century. However, in terms of current natural gas production, California’s indigenous production meets only approximately 10% of state demand.