Converting upstream oil and gas production facilities to run on electricity powered by renewables or natural gas that would otherwise be flared could cut more than 80% of associated emissions, according to new research from Rystad Energy.
Fully electrified rigs and other assets on the Norwegian Continental Shelf emit 1.2 kilogrammes of carbon dioxide per barrel of oil equivalent (kg of CO2 per boe) produced, an 86% drop from the 8.4 kg of CO2 per boe emitted by the same assets before electrification.
Norway is in a prime position among major oil and gas producers in that it can tap into its abundant renewable energy resources, particularly hydroelectric power, to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from upstream production.
The country was an early mover in refitting its assets to run on clean power, and now has plans to cut emissions from the continental shelf by 70% by 2040; however the Nordic country remains western Europe’s biggest petroleum producer.
... to continue reading you must be subscribed
