Developing aquifer storage: ensuring sound decision-making from the outset

Against a backdrop of diversification in storage infrastructure, some operators are keen to explore new types of reservoirs, such as aquifers or depleted reservoirs. Focus on a project to assess and prioritise prospects, aimed at ensuring sound decision-making before development projects are launched.

Interview with Catherine Formento, Geological Engineer at Storengy

Question: Why are we seeing growing interest in aquifer storage today?
C.F.: Many operators have historically developed storage facilities in certain types of reservoirs (in salt caverns or depleted gas fields). Faced with changing needs and local contexts, it is becoming relevant to explore other geological options, such as aquifers, in order to broaden the scope of development possibilities.

Question: What role does Storengy play in this type of process?
C.F.: We get involved right from the early stages to provide an independent and structured perspective.
The aim is to assess the quality of the available data, identify areas requiring attention, and validate the choices made before undertaking more detailed studies. 

Question: How is a project of this kind structured in practice?
C.F.: The process generally revolves around several complementary components: a critical analysis of the identified prospects (based on the available geological and technical data), ranking of the prospects to prioritise opportunities according to their potential and level of risk, definition of a risk mitigation programme targeting the key uncertainties to be resolved, and an action plan to structure the next steps and guide decision-making.
This approach aims to provide a clear and prioritised overview of the options.

Question: What role do on-site discussions play in this type of assignment?
C.F.: They are essential. Assignments generally include in-depth discussions with operational teams on site, in order to compare analyses with on-the-ground realities and share feedback. This close involvement helps to enrich the analyses and develop operational recommendations.

Question: What benefits does this type of support offer a client?
C.F.: It helps to structure the decision-making process, provide an objective perspective on the options available, and better manage risks right from the early stages of the project. An external perspective and the experience gained from other similar projects are a real asset.

Question: How does this example illustrate the services offered by Storengy?
C.F.: It illustrates our ability to support operators during strategic and upstream phases, by drawing on our expertise in the subsurface, our knowledge of different types of storage and our experience in managing complex projects. These services help to reduce uncertainties and lay solid foundations for future developments.

Conclusion
Through this type of project, Storengy puts its expertise at the service of operators wishing to assess, prioritise and secure the development of new storage facilities, particularly in aquifers, with a view to informed decision-making and risk management.