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Saudi Aramco, Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia: Maximizing Efficiency: The ESP Energy Efficiency Enhancement (4Es) Approach to Energy Optimization

Company: Saudi Aramco
Company Description: Northern Area Production Engineering (NAPED) Is the custodian of Around 5000 wells of all types in 13 onshore and offshore fields under Northern Area Oil Operations Admin Area of Saudi Aramco. Department Vision is to maximize wells potential while retaining healthy well life cycle by deploying best-in-class, financially viable, innovative, technologically advanced production engineering.
Nomination Category: Technology Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Award for Innovation in Technology Management, Planning & Implementation - All Other Industries
2023 Stevie Winner Nomination Title: Maximizing Efficiency: The ESP Energy Efficiency Enhancement (4Es) Approach to Energy Optimization
  1. Provide an essay of up to 625 words describing the nominee's innovative achievements since July 1 2021:

    Total 605 words used.

    The utilization of advanced tools to optimize the energy consumption of Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESPs) represents a significant step towards enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs in the oil and gas industry. This approach involves deploying cutting-edge technology to analyze and regulate the energy usage of ESPs, resulting in reduced environmental impact, and enhanced economic viability.
    The rationale behind employing such tools lies in the recognition of ESPs' critical role in hydrocarbon production. These pumps are essential for lifting fluids from deep reservoirs to the surface, a process that demands substantial energy input. However, the inefficiencies inherent in traditional ESP operations often lead to excessive energy consumption, which not only escalates operational expenses but also contributes to environmental concerns.
    The summary of this initiative encompasses the adoption of specialized monitoring systems that utilizes digital twin models. By closely monitoring pump performance and downhole conditions, engineers can fine-tune the pump's operation to match the dynamic requirements of the reservoir. This adaptive control mechanism optimizes energy consumption, adjusting pump speed and output to achieve the desired production rate while minimizing wastage. The innovation lies in tool’s ability to automate and integrate complex processes such as data mining from company’s extensive database, well model creation, and matching digital twin to the latest production well test data. By harnessing the power of Industrial Revolution 4.0, the 4Es methodology sets the stage for more efficient, safe, and scientifically driven approach to ESP optimization. Its advanced capabilities enable field-level optimization, leading to substantial business valve, including power consumption optimization, minimal downtime, reduced production losses, and extended equipment life.  
    The 4Es methodology offers compelling economic value through its demonstrated success in reducing operational costs and improving energy efficiency. The implementation of 4Es tool in the field trial resulted in a 24% reduction in power consumption, directly translating into significant power cost savings and a substantial decrease in CO2 emissions. These reductions and tangible economic benefits and contribute to sustainability goals. Furthermore, the post-optimization temperature drop in ESP motor extends the pump’s run-life by reducing induced stresses on pump components. This directly reduces workover costs associated with premature equipment failure and downtime. The field wide estimations indicate a potential of 25% reduction in overall power consumption, which is equivalent to powering 4,000 homes for a year. The 4Es tool offers a competitive edge by optimizing production rates, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact. A total of 38 ESPs were optimized in Northern Area leading to significant yearly power savings CO2 emission reductions. 

    ESP energy optimizations aligns with Saudi Aramco’s strategic vision including Efficiency enhancement through optimized resources utilization. Through this strategic vision, evident transformation can be observed:      
    1. Advanced Technologies: By integrating digital twin technology and predictive analytics, ESPs gain precise insights into pump performance. This empowers data-driven decision-making, allowing for optimized pump operation and energy usage.   
    2. Operational Efficiency: The strategic integration of monitoring systems enhances overall operational processes. This results in, optimal well production, and optimized power consumption.
    3. Sustainability Focus: Strategic ESP power optimization demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. The reduction in energy consumption and optimized pump operations contribute to lower environmental impact and resource usage.
    4. Financial Impact: Transformation is evident in reduced energy costs and minimized power expenses.

    5. reduced environmental impact: ESP energy optimization aligns with Saudi Aramco’s sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. This contributes to the company’s efforts to minimize its environmental impact and support global sustainability initiates.

    These factors contribute to improved financial performance and sustainable growth.
    Evidence of real transformation is reflected in quantifiable outcomes, including increased pump efficiency, decreased energy consumption and reduced operational costs.

Attachments/Videos/Links:
Maximizing Efficiency: The ESP Energy Efficiency Enhancement (4Es) Approach to Energy Optimization
DOCX 4Es_Stevie_Award_Submission.docx
PDF 4Es.pdf
PDF NAPED_ESP_Energy_Efficiency_Enhancement_4Es_.pdf