-Using CNG vs. Diesel | Russell T. Rudy Energy LLC
The Bakken shale in North Dakota is one of the premier unconventional oil plays in the world. Unfortunately, the large size of the structure, the rapid rate of development, and the lack of infrastructure and regulatory framework have all combined to make flaring an acute and persistent problem.
To put the issue in perspective, less than 1% of produced gas is flared in the U. S., and about 3% worldwide. However, in spite of recent infrastructure development and regulatory initiatives, flaring in the Bakken area has stubbornly remained at over 30%.
However, “Rigzone” reports that Statoil, in collaboration with General Electric and Ferus Natural Gas Fuels, has developed an innovative solution to help address the flaring problem. This involves the use of mobile Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) modules for compression, storage and transportation of gas that would otherwise be flared. These modules can be moved to wherever they are needed and the CNG transported to where it can be used. Statoil has modified its drilling rigs in the Bakken to bi-fuel units which can burn diesel or CNG. The company anticipates an immediate reduction of current diesel usage by 40-50% by conversion to CNG. Conversion of fracking equipment, generators and heavy trucks to bi-fuel is also anticipated.
To read the article in its entirety, please go to www.rigzone.com/news/article.asp?hpf=1&a_id=133854&utm .
