Field-development optimization is challenging because of the large number of control parameters, model complexity, and subsurface uncertainties. The complete paper discusses a study in which the authors propose a joint field-development and well-control-optimization work flow using high-performance parallel simulation and commercial cloud computing, and demonstrate its application through an offshore oilfield development.
Introduction
Designing a field-development plan to maximize the profitability of the asset involves accounting for many factors. Commonly, a field-development plan follows a staged process in which several alternatives are appraised and the one with the best economics is selected. The selected plan is then optimized while considering schedule and cost.