Progress and Outlook for the Department of Energy’s Office of Oil and Natural Gas Midstream and Methane Hydrate R&D Activities

Abstract

This presentation will provide an overview of the Department of Energy’s Office of Oil and Natural Gas – Division of Supply and Delivery, and its current and potential R&D activities, with emphasis on new and emerging technologies. R&D areas to be discussed include research activities related to improving the operational efficiency of Natural Gas Infrastructure, assessing the potential of Methane Hydrates as a resource, and examining methane “recycling” for flared and stranded gas.

The Department works to ensure America's energy security and prosperity by addressing energy and environmental challenges with research and technology solutions in support of the President’s goals for energy dominance. As part of that effort, the Department is committed to developing advanced, cost-effective technologies to enhance pipeline reliability and security and improve the operational efficiency from natural gas transmission, distribution, and storage facilities. Priority early stage research areas include advanced composite materials, non-reactive coatings with embedded sensors, and a renewed interest in pipeline cybersecurity technologies.

Additionally, the Department is committed to continuing to evaluate the occurrence, nature, and behavior of naturally occurring methane or gas hydrates. The program intends to confirm the nature and regional context of gas hydrate deposits, and the physical properties and characteristics of gas hydrate-bearing sediments.

Finally, natural gas and associated hydrocarbons are produced in oil and gas operations across the United States. In some instances, initial production is accompanied by gas or gas-liquids that cannot be economically transported to markets. DOE is interested in pursuing new R&D pathways to enhance the efficient utilization of our Nation’s natural resources.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90323 ©2018 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Salt Lake City, Utah, May 20-23, 2018