The complete paper describes an integrated subsurface characterization and monitoring approach not only for the construction of underground gas storage (UGS) but also for safe and efficient operation over many decades. Close integration of subsurface understanding with optimization of surface facilities is a critical factor in ensuring optimal UGS performance and deliverability. Another important task of the final phase of UGS facilities design involves enablement of sustainable operation through an asset-integrity-management plan.
Importance of Integrated Subsurface Characterization and Monitoring
The work flows developed to aid integrated subsurface characterization and monitoring play a critical role. These work flows can be grouped as follows:
- Capacity (the potential of the storage site to ensure optimal working capacity)
- Deliverability (the ability of the wells and associated infrastructure to ensure the delivery of the gas from the surface into the reservoir and vice versa)
- Integrity (including reservoir and well integrity with overall asset safety and surface infrastructures)
The element that connects these work flows and ensures collaboration between different work groups and technical disciplines is the 4D dynamic geomechanical model.
Capacity. In depleted reservoirs or aquifer storage, the determination of the total capacity of a UGS site includes a review and analysis process.
