A Probe into the Development Laws of Large Gas Fields

Abstract

Abstract. Large gas fields occupy a dominant position in natural gas exploration and development. Many of them are at their mature stage and most are exploited effectively. Therefore it is necessary to study their successful experience to guide undeveloped gas fields. Based on analysis of more than 200 mature large gas fields, the general laws are discussed. Firstly, large gas fields should guarantee a long stable production period through two different kinds of styles. Secondly, EUR of large gas fields is generally high if successful measures are implemented against development risks mainly including uncertainties of structural features, reservoir permeability and drive mechanism. Thirdly, large gas fields need to undertake more responsibility to deal with short-term peak shaving based on strict criteria of suitable characteristics. Finally, more protection priority should be given to strategic gas fields while taking long-term resource security strategy into account.