Exploration strategy

Abstract

The purpose of exploration for petroleum is to make oil and gas discoveries that can form the basis for commercial development and production of oil and gas fields (Fig. 26.1). The formulation of ideas or models for where to drill to make discoveries is based on assessments of the generation, migration and trapping of petroleum. Combinations of these factors are referred to as play concepts. At the very start of the exploration of an area within a sedimentary basin the factual basis for assessing the various necessary factors is sparse and oil companies are confronted with a wide range of possible scenarios that can lead to petroleum discoveries. An open approach is, however, needed in relation to what is the most likely scenario both in the early and later phases of exploration. The explicit knowledge can very easily shadow for the implicit potential. Exploration is a continuous learning process where the key to success is found in details that are difficult to appreciate.