Reduction of construction time for geothermal wells at the Mutnovskoye field (Kamchatka peninsula) through optimization of engineering solutions

UDK: 622.24.08

DOI: 10.24887/0028-2448-2026-3-36-40

Key words: geothermal energy, geothermal wells construction, drilling time reduction, Zarubezhneft JSC, Giprovostokneft JSC, RMNTK-Nefteotdacha LLC

Authors: K.V. Kempf (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); A.P. Leshchev (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); D.V. Shkarin (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); V.V. Balashov (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); M.F. Akhmetov (Giprovostokneft JSC, RF, Samara); D.V. Scherbakov (Giprovostokneft JSC, RF, Samara)

This paper presents the collaborative work experience of Zarubezhneft JSC, Giprovostokneft JSC, and RMNTK-Nefteotdacha LLC in optimizing technological solutions for the construction of geothermal wells at the Mutnovskoye field, located on the Kamchatka Peninsula. Given the remoteness from traditional oil and gas production centers and the imperative to enhance power supply reliability, the development of geothermal energy in this region holds critical economic importance. The field is characterized by unique geological and engineering conditions: high formation temperatures, reaching up to 350 °С, highly abrasive formations and a high risk of lost circulation during drilling and cementing operations. Building upon advanced oil and gas industry expertise, a comprehensive set of technological solutions was developed and implemented, including: the use of Polycrystalline Diamond Compact (PDC) bits, specifically engineered for the challenging conditions of the Mutnovskoye field; the integration of a Measurement While Drilling (MWD) downhole telemetry system; optimization of the well design and adjustment of the drilling fluid system; implementing enhanced procedures with the drilling crew to optimize well construction operations. The deployment of these solutions resulted in a significant improvement in drilling efficiency compared to previously drilled wells in the field. Furthermore, ensuring wellbore longevity is identified as the next priority. To address this challenge, a research and development project was initiated to refine the cementing slurry formulation and the cementing technology itself.

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