f Modeling Petroleum System: Case Study from Northeast Netherlands Carboniferous-Permian Basin

Computer based petroleum system modeling of Groningen Gas Field is carried out by using geophysical and borehole data. The basin is considered as mature in terms of hydrocarbon exploration and production where Carboniferous Westphalian units are the main source rocks. In this study, stratigraphical and tectonic evolution of the basin is established by using borehole and 3D seismic data which in turn, combined with geological, geophysical and geochemical data used for 1D and 2D modeling of its petroleum system. Results show that the most recognized traps were formed during pre-Zechstein (Upper Permian), and the major generation, migration and accumulation of hydrocarbon commenced during Middle Jurassic and continues to the present time. Since the timing of main hydrocarbon generation varies spatially and has begun after trap formation, both early and late migration enhances the potential of the porous Upper Rotliegend (Upper Permian) reservoirs. Prospective hydrocarbon traps may occur in the southwestern regions of the basin due to shallower depth of burial.