AGR Well Control tackles CO2 injection well challenges for Northern Lights CCS project

As part of the Northern Lights CCS project, AGR’s Well Control experts recently assessed the qualification of equipment and processes required for workover operations on CO₂ injection wells.

This study is a crucial step in advancing the Northern Lights CCS project, focusing on understanding the impact of bleeding back CO₂ well on existing equipment and identifying the measures necessary to safely use a light intervention vessel for carbon injection operations.

The proposed workover process in the Northern Lights CCS project involves a wireline and riserless well intervention that utilizes an umbilical to connect the vessel to the subsea Well Control Package (WCP). This umbilical includes a specialized injection hose designed for pumping Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) or other liquids into the WCP.

During the intervention, it is essential to carefully bleed off the CO₂ content from the WCP through a hose connected to the vessel’s hydrocarbon processing facilities. Here, the CO₂ and other gases are efficiently separated from the liquid, ensuring a safe and controlled operation.

Ensuring Operational Integrity: Advanced Risk Mitigation Strategies

Our Well Control team have meticulously simulated this operation and quantified various mitigation options to address potential risks. One such measure includes the injection of MEG, which is essential to prevent extremely low temperatures that could occur during the bleed-off process. This proactive approach helps maintain the integrity of the equipment and ensures the operation proceeds smoothly.

About the Northern Lights CCS project

Northern Lights CCS transport and storage network is a joint venture between TotalEnergies, Equinor, and Shell aimed at receiving and storing CO₂ emissions from European industries. The Phase 1 facilities are set to launch in 2024, with the capacity to handle up to 1.5 million tons of CO₂ annually.

The insights gained from this assessment are vital for the Northern Lights project, laying the groundwork for safe and efficient workover operations on CO₂ injection wells. AGR Well Control’s expertise in well intervention and control continues to play a crucial role in advancing CO₂ storage technologies and supporting the global transition to sustainable energy solutions.