ONGC seeks technical aid to boost Mumbai high output

According to a statement posted on X, the company has initiated the process of inviting proposals through an international tender to identify the service provider capable of aiding in the production enhancement from the field.

ONGC mentioned that the giant multi-layered Mumbai High field, which commenced production 48 years ago in 1976, is presently in its mature stage of production. ONGC has implemented various schemes in this field aimed at improving production.

Expressing its eagerness to collaborate with a global technical service provider as the custodian and operator of Mumbai High field, ONGC highlighted that the selected service provider would be engaged for a period of 10 years, with the possibility of extension by another five years.

Located 160 kilometres off the coast of Mumbai, the Mumbai High field contributes approximately 38 per cent of India's oil production. Despite reaching its peak output of 40,000 barrels per day in 1989, the field currently produces 134,000 bpd of oil and about 10 million standard cubic metres per day of gas.

It is estimated that the field holds a remaining reserve of 80 million tonnes (610 million barrels) of oil and over 40 billion cubic metres of gas.

The selected service provider is expected to provide technical solutions for increasing output. Compensation would comprise a fixed fee along with a share from the revenue generated from incremental production above a predetermined baseline.

ONGC emphasised, "Mumbai High is one of the prime assets of ONGC, and significant potential remains untapped here if ONGC implements best-in-class reservoir management technologies and adopts globally-proven operational and management practices." The company added that bids are scheduled for submission in mid-September.

The chosen service provider would conduct a comprehensive evaluation of field performance and identify enhancements in wells, reservoirs (including water injection), and facilities management (WRFM). Additionally, the scope of work would include integrated reservoir/FEED studies and the development of detailed work plans for field development.

ONGC invited all international oil and gas majors with an annual revenue exceeding $75 billion to participate in this invitation for competitive bidding (ICB).