Optimizing Oil Production and Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions Through AICD Technology: A Comprehensive Study of Block 95 in the Peruvian Protecting Area

García W.; Bustamante E.; Huaranga L.; Acencios L.; Choquejahua A.; Alvarez B.; Chanaga A.; Konopczynski M.; Solano M. · Society of Petroleum Engineers - SPE Canadian Energy Technology Conference and Exhibition, CET 2025 (2025) · DOI: 10.2118/224002-ms

Resumen

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Autonomous Inflow Control Device (AICD) technology in enhancing oil recovery from horizontal wells while reducing environmental impact. The research focuses on the Bretaña Norte reservoir within PetroTal's Block 95 concession in the Peruvian Amazon Jungle. Production data from four horizontal wells equipped with AICDs, drilled between 2019 and 2024, was analyzed and compared against historical data from wells without AICDs. The analysis quantified improvements in recovery rates and environmental metrics. The implementation of AICDs during well completion involved meticulous planning and execution, requiring a paradigm shift among stakeholders and personnel. Extensive data processing and modeling efforts were conducted to ensure accurate comparisons. The dataset included fluid properties, formation characteristics, and operational details, which were incorporated into a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) estimator to predict energy usage and emissions under various scenarios, both with and without AICDs. Results showed a significant increase in oil recovery, with production rates rising by 20% to 30% and a 10% increase in estimated ultimate recoverable reserves (EUR) for the Bretaña Norte field. AICDs effectively mitigated early water breakthrough, reducing water cut by 20%, which lowered water handling and re-injection costs. Environmental benefits included a 56% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions due to decreased energy consumption in surface facilities and optimized power usage. The carbon footprint per barrel of oil produced was significantly reduced, aligning with the operator's sustainability goals. Given these outcomes, AICD technology has become the standard completion method for horizontal wells in Block 95, maximizing oil recovery while minimizing environmental impact. This study highlights the dual benefits of AICD technology: enhancing production efficiency and supporting net-zero carbon intensity targets. It provides a comprehensive framework for implementing flow control devices to reduce emissions while documenting the learning curve, adaptation strategies, and best practices for future applications in similar heavy oil fields. These findings underscore the importance of knowledge transfer and continuous improvement in modern reservoir management. Copyright 2025, Society of Petroleum Engineers