34 | ENERGY Western Energy T T Karen Phelps Redefining the geothermal landscape “Our unit maximises operational efficiency and ensures safer, faster operations. It’s a true gamechanger for geothermal well interventions.” Taupō-based geothermal services provider Western Energy is cementing its position in the energy sector as an innovator by recently unveiling new technologies that promise to redefine the geothermal landscape. “We are committed to bringing innovation to geothermal operations,” says Marcus Prestney, General Manager of Western Energy. “Our High-Capacity Coiled Tubing Unit (HCCTU) and formation cleaning service represent a significant step forward for the industry, offering capabilities that simply weren’t possible before.” The HC-CTU, developed in collaboration with NOV Canada at a $16 million investment, is designed specifically to meet the rigorous demands of geothermal wells. Compact, mobile and highly versatile, the unit provides an alternative to conventional rig-based drilling, enabling the creation of new wells with unprecedented efficiency and precision, says Marcus. “We drilled in December in Ohaki for the first time for a new reinjection well and it was classed as a world first. “The unit has also been used to make a very large well safe. We came up with a plan using this unit to plug it. This wouldn’t have been achievable with other units.” The HC-CTU boasts 100,000 lbs of constant pulling power, advanced pressure control systems and 2-⅞” coiled tubing strings capable of reaching depths of up to 2,850 metres. Its twin 1,200 HP Quint-plex pump delivers 16bpm pumping providing operators with precise control over fluid management. Marcus says these features allow Western Energy to undertake complex drilling, well lengthening and side-tracking operations with unmatched accuracy. “Our unit maximises operational efficiency and ensures safer, faster operations. It’s a true gamechanger for geothermal well interventions,” says Marcus.. “The HC-CTU has allowed the generating companies alternative options to use coil with smaller carbon footprint than conventional rig-based equipment, reducing down time and generating cost efficiencies.” Western Energy has also introduced a formation cleaning service. In collaboration with Contact Energy, it has developed a solution to reinvigorate wells where scale and blockages limit steam production.
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