The Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority is responsible for regulating CO₂ storage activities on the Norwegian Continental Shelf, including issuing CCS licenses for exploration and development of carbon storage projects. AGR is proud to contribute to this important area, supporting safe and effective CCS operations as part of the broader energy transition.
As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and risk management in carbon capture and storage (CCS) operations, our well control and blowout contingency experts have delivered a comprehensive report to the Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority (Havtil) assessing the suitability of current blowout modelling tools for CO₂ wells.
Requirements for Tools to Simulate CO₂ well control
Commissioned by Havtil, our well control experts conducted an in-depth analysis of how existing flow simulation software—originally developed for oil and gas wells—performs when applied to CO₂ wells. The evaluation focused on identifying key differences in fluid behavior between CO₂ and oil and gas wells and how these differences impact well control simulations.
To effectively prepare for and manage potential CO₂ well blowouts, simulation tools must accurately reflect the thermodynamic properties of CO₂, its interaction with drilling fluids, and the resulting behavior of the fluid mixture. These insights are essential for designing effective contingency plans and ensuring flow assurance in CO₂ wells.
Independent study supporting safe and sustainable CCS Operations
Our study explored the dynamics of uncontrolled CO₂ releases, including flow phase distribution, thermal effects, and well integrity risks. It also offered expert evaluations of current simulation tools used in the industry and their applicability to CCS projects.
Findings from the report were presented earlier this year at the Well Control 2025 seminar, a key industry event focused on sharing experiences, preventive strategies, and technological advances in well control. The seminar, hosted by Havtil, brought together industry representatives from operating companies, rig owners, service companies, and other stakeholders to foster knowledge exchange and drive innovation in well safety.