DNV GL is proposing a new concept that combines mature water injection technology with the newest developments in offshore wind power to achieve more cost effective EOR, a news release said.

Industries are invited to join DNV GL in developing this concept further in a joint industry project. Initial studies show it could reduce the cost of water injection, avoid costly topside modifications and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

DNV GL studies suggest there are opportunities for a new generation of autonomous injection systems used to increase the reservoir pressure. It could be installed without costly retro-fittings on the platform, provide access to systems normally located subsea, increase the flexibility of injection location and reduce the installation time, the release said. The system also could be easy to move and use at new locations after the closure of a well or field.

The concept intends to integrate the compressor and water treatment equipment into the substructure of a floating wind turbine. Combining the newest developments within offshore wind power and EOR may be a highly beneficial partnership, DNV GL said in the release. On the one hand, floating wind turbines have recently emerged as one of the most interesting sources for offshore power generation, allowing relatively stable production, and flexibility regarding locations and water depths. This power can be used with a variety of water injection technologies, ranging from raw seawater injection as the simplest to LowSal water injection (low salinity water from a reverse osmosis process) as the most complex.