Tight-gas reservoirs require fracture stimulation to be economically developed, which is arguably their defining characteristic. Throughout the history of tight gas development, numerous challenges have emerged, providing valuable lessons learned. This session will focus specifically on sub-surface (reservoir-related) challenges associated with the unique properties of tight-gas reservoirs (e.g. low porosity, low permeability, and high capillary pressure).

This session will present real-world case studies highlighting key challenges currently faced by the industry, including but not limited to:
• Pre-frac testing shows high gas rates and rapid decline, while post-frac rates are significantly lower
• A horizontal multi-frac well produces less than a vertically fractured well in the same reservoir
• At constant THP, post-frac gas rates increase over the first two years of production
• Pre-frac tests show no gas flow, and post-frac tests also show no gas flow — poor reservoir quality or ineffective fracturing?
• Water blocking or fluid-related damage limiting gas flow in tight formations
• Mismatch between modelled fracture performance and actual production results

This session will provide an opportunity to present case studies, engage with attendees, and foster discussion, as well as the sharing of experiences and learnings relevant to the challenges presented in each case. Some tight-gas challenges have identifiable “solutions”, while others must be accepted and managed as part of the inherent complexity of developing tight-gas reservoirs.