With the transition to net zero gathering momentum, the importance of innovative subsurface technology and expertise to maximise economic recovery and diversify the energy mix will be the focus of two upcoming SPE Aberdeen events.
Now in its fourth year, Seismic 2020 will focus on the current state of the industry, in addition to looking ahead and showcasing geophysics in the energy transition. The keynote speaker is John Etgen, distinguished advisor for seismic imaging in BP and current assistant editor of Geophysics. John’s keynote will cover recent accomplishments, challenges and future directions.
Ahead of the event, which takes place on April 29-30, John said: “Seismic is the eyes of the oil and gas business. It allows us to see what we are doing in the subsurface. It has played a huge role in providing energy for the world and I’m sure it will do so for some time to come. I’m pleased to be involved in Seismic 2020 as it seeks to expand the track record of geophysicists in their pursuit of excellence and value for the energy business.”
The conference will be chaired by BP’s Chrysanthe Munn, with the technical programme including presentations covering the role of seismic in the energy transition, acquisition technology, ocean bottom node, 4D field surveillance and imaging and characteristics. Case histories and lessons learned from operators including BP, Cnooc International, Shell, Siccar Point and Total will also be presented.
The following week Devex 2020 takes place, May 5-6. This event, now in its 17th year, is the UK’s main, full-lifecycle conference covering exploration and development, through to decommissioning, and is organised jointly by SPE Aberdeen, PESGB and Afes.
Ed Downer, Lloyd’s Register and chair of Devex 2020, said: “The North Sea industry is changing. Smaller players are buying assets owned and operated by the large multinationals to become giants themselves in the region.
“Meanwhile the big players are realising value through the application of technology, with artificial intelligence playing an ever-important role.
“The energy transition has been thrown to the forefront by the increasing pressure the climate crisis brings, as well as changing public opinion.
“This year’s theme, Embracing the new wave – the role of collaboration and technology in the new era of the North Sea, will focus on these important changes in the industry and I am pleased with the way the conference is taking shape.”
The programme includes a fantastic line up of keynote presentations. Day one focuses on technology, with keynote addresses to be delivered by Ariel Flores, BP, and Marianne Eide, Shell. On the second day the focus will switch to the energy transition with Alan James, Pale Blue Dot Energy, discussing carbon capture and sequestration and what net zero means, Professor Jon Gluyas, Durham University, discussing geoenergy and Mike Tholen, OGUK, will discuss energy transition and the role of the North Sea oil and gas industry. As in previous years there will be a core display, a field trip (Gamrie Bay and New Aberdour) and masterclasses. Topics will include integrating core with the wider reservoir, artificial intelligence, carbon capture and sequestration and how the investment community views the industry.
For full details: www.spe-aberdeen.org