Pioneering Deployment of Advanced E-Line Artificial Lift Technology for First Time in UAE

This paper evaluates the performance of novel advanced artificial lift technology, deployed for the first time in the UAE, across four oil-producing wells from two different ADNOC Onshore assets in 2024. It aims to highlight the benefits in reviving ceased wells, enhancing efficiency, reducing energy use, and improving safety and sustainability. The study examines its effectiveness in challenging conditions and its potential to transform artificial lift strategies for optimized production with reduced carbon footprint. The methodology focused on a detailed evaluation of the advanced artificial lift technology through UAE’s first field trials in 2024, conducted on four oil-producing wells in two fields of ADNOC Onshore. Wells that had ceased production and previously relied on nitrogen lift, were selected to deploy the permanent magnet motor-driven system via a through-tubing method. Critical parameters such as production rates, energy consumption, and system reliability were tracked, while also assessing safety improvements and emission reductions. Data on uptime and performance in slim-bore and deviated wells was collected and analyzed to determine the technology’s effectiveness and potential for wider use in complex reservoirs. The 2024 field trials of the advanced artificial lift technology across four oil-producing wells in two UAE fields produced encouraging outcomes. In the first field, both wells maintained consistent natural flow post-deployment, confirming the system’s effectiveness in reviving ceased wells without relying on nitrogen lift. In the second field, both wells flowed successfully while the technology was active; however, after the tool was removed following the restoration of flow, the wells ceased production due to high water cut. The system delivered notable improvements in efficiency, cutting energy use and carbon emissions compared to conventional coiled tubing methods. Its compact design and through-tubing deployment eliminated the need for rig interventions, reducing lifecycle costs and enhancing safety by replacing coiled tubing operations. Technology also enabled production from slim-bore wells, opening up new opportunities in challenging reservoirs. It performed reliably in deviated and horizontal wells, showcasing its versatility. In conclusion, this technology presents a game-changing approach to artificial lift, offering a cost-effective, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for reactivating dormant wells. It supports the UAE’s sustainability objectives and holds significant potential for wider adoption, particularly in complex reservoir settings. This paper unveils a groundbreaking 2024 UAE trial of advanced artificial lift technology, boldly challenging the reliance on conventional techniques such as nitrogen lift and rig interventions. Unlike traditional methods, this cutting-edge system—driven by permanent magnet motor technology with through-tubing deployment—slashes costs, boosts safety, and drastically cuts energy use while accessing slim-bore wells in complex reservoirs. Publishing this work is vital to spotlight a revolutionary, sustainable shift that upends conventional practices and propels the petroleum industry forward with transformative innovation.