IEA GHG Weyburn-Midale CO2 monitoring and storage project–moving forward with the Final Phase

Abstract

Since the end of First Phase of the IEA GHG Weyburn CO 2 monitoring and storage research project in 2004, the leading sponsors, PTRC, and the project team have been moving forward with the Final Phase. International interest in this project has remained strong, with new industry sponsors and continued support from First Phase sponsors. This paper highlights the key activities undertaken and issues encountered during the transition period between the conclusion of the First Phase and the start of the Final Phase. A detailed overview is provided of the proposed Final Phase technical work program, progress on ongoing technical research activities and other key activities planned. The technical research program consists of four main technical themes: 1. Site Characterization-Geological Integrity 2. Wellbore Integrity 3. Storage Monitoring Methods-Geophysical & Geochemical 4. Risk Assessment. A key deliverable from this Final Phase is development of a Best Practises Manual to help guide implementation of CO 2 geological storage in conjunction with enhanced oil recovery and to provide learnings extracted from the project that are generally applicable to other geological storage projects.