The Importance of an Integrated Workflow for a CCS Site Evaluation: a UK SNS Case Study

Re-purposed regional 3D seismic data libraries represent a cost-effective and scalable data source for the development and implementation of advanced Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) site characterization workflows, which can meet the growing demands for rapid, at-scale site development. Thus, accessing and utilizing reliable 3D seismic should be considered a pre-requisite for site identification, characterization, and development. In this paper, a case study of a deep saline aquifer site (UKCS Q49) will be presented demonstrating the value of this approach. The project uses a PGS regional multi-client seismic (6,500 sq km) and wells datasets in the North Sea. These data were used to calibrate a quantitative interpretation workflow, which was used to map the site and identify key containment and injection risks. AI/ML tools were implemented to resolve issues with data gaps in well data, and to rapidly develop a high-resolution seismic interpretation including the automatic interpretation of faults. The output was used to build a 3D earth model, which was populated with seismically conditioned rock properties and simulated. This case study demonstrates that regional seismic and well data can have significant utility as part of an efficient integrated workflow for advanced evaluation and risking of CO2 storage sites.