Aquifer flow dynamics in high-permeability, heterogeneous, gas reservoirs, utilizing a gas reservoir as a case study*

Abstract

In water driven gas reservoirs, aquifer encroachment has major implications on development decisions and production management. Water encroachment patterns depend on several static and dynamic parameters spanning numerous spatial scales, from pore to basin scale. This research focuses on improving the characterization of aquifer encroachment patterns, utilizing a large offshore, water driven, gas reservoir as a case study. An experimental design workflow applied to a numerical simulation sector-model is used to evaluate and quantify key parameters. Results of this research provide insight to improved understanding of water encroachment patterns and methods that improve the ability to model aquifer dynamics.