Horizontal Wells in Virginia
A horizontal well starts out being drilled vertically, but is then directed horizontally in a particular formation. By drilling horizontally in a formation, more of the rock is exposed thereby opening up more area for gas to migrate into the wellbore. Horizontal drilling is not a new concept; the first recorded horizontal oil well was drilled in 1929 by a Texan named Robert E. Lee! Recent advances in technology have reduced the cost to drill horizontally, making it more attractive economically. Many of the formations in Virginia are 'tight', meaning their porosity and permeability are very low. Horizontal drilling has the potential of dramatically increasing productivity from these formations. Another benefit to horizontal drilling is that several wells can be drilled from the same well site, thereby minimizing surface disturbance.
The first horizontal well in Virginia targeted coal seams in Dickenson County. In 2007, Range Resources and EQT drilled the first Lower Huron Shale horizontal well. Since then, over 90 horizontal wells have been drilled in this shale formation. Several other geologic formations have also been targeted, such as the Berea Sandstone, Weir Siltstone and the Big Lime formations.
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The first horizontal well in Virginia targeted coal seams in Dickenson County. In 2007, Range Resources and EQT drilled the first Lower Huron Shale horizontal well. Since then, over 90 horizontal wells have been drilled in this shale formation. Several other geologic formations have also been targeted, such as the Berea Sandstone, Weir Siltstone and the Big Lime formations.
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