Aramco, a global leader in integrated energy and chemicals, has achieved the early production of unconventional tight gas at its South Ghawar operational area, ahead of schedule by two months. This milestone aligns with Aramco's strategy to increase gas production by more than half over 2021 levels through 2030, depending on domestic demand.
Key Achievements
- Production of the first unconventional tight gas from South Ghawar completed two months ahead of schedule.
- Commissioned facilities at South Ghawar have a processing capacity of 300 million standard cubic feet per day (scfd) of raw gas and 38,000 barrels per day (bpd) of condensate processing capacity.
- Aramco plans to more than double the overall processing capacity to achieve South Ghawar’s strategic goal of delivering 750 million scfd of raw gas in the near future.
Strategic Importance
Nasir Al-Naimi, Aramco Upstream President, highlighted the significance of this achievement in the context of Aramco's gas expansion strategy. The increased gas production is seen as essential in meeting the Kingdom's requirements for lower-emission energy and supporting growth in the chemicals sector.
Operational Excellence
The early commencement of production, achieved ahead of schedule and below budget, underscores the dedication and determination of Aramco's workforce to enhance upstream operations continuously. This success contributes to the company's commitment to operational excellence and strategic objectives.
Unconventional Gas Streams
The production of tight sand gas at South Ghawar marks Aramco's second unconventional gas stream, following the initiation of production at the North Arabia field in 2018, which delivered 240 million scfd to customers in Wa’ad Al-Shamal. Simultaneously, work is progressing at the Jafurah unconventional gas field, the largest liquid-rich shale gas play in the Middle East.
Conclusion
Aramco's achievement in early unconventional tight gas production at South Ghawar reflects the company's commitment to advancing its gas expansion strategy and contributing to the Kingdom's energy needs and industrial growth. This success positions Aramco as a key player in the evolving landscape of global energy production.
