08123-10

Primary Performer
Gulf Coast Green Energy

Additional Participants
Denbury Resources
ElectraTherm Inc
Dry Coolers Inc.
Southern Methodist University
Texas A&M University (GPRI)

Abstract
Gulf Coast Green Energy is proposing to demonstrate a modified waste heat generator that uses produced water to create “green” electricity usable on site or for transmission off site for field operations. The goal of this project is to reduce the small operators exposure to rising electric rates, increase their productivity, reduce environmental impacts, and to create more favorable public perception. The overall objective is to identify and demonstrate technology that will reduce the field operating cost of electricity and minimize the environmental impact by creating green electricity using produced water and no additional fossil fuel.

The electrical generation technology operates on heat from produced water, preferably at temperatures above 190oF. The technology is based on an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system. The condensing side of the ORC will utilize fan coolers eliminating the extensive amount of fresh water usage and maintenance expenses of operating a cooling tower.

The proposed research includes 2 phases with research objectives targeting the development of cost-effective produce water distributed electrical generation. Phase I, the well selection and Phase II, the installation, startup and operation of the waste heat generator.

The Denbury field near Laurel and Jackson, Mississippi will be the site of the field demonstration. Denbury has a number of wells that may be used for this project. Near the wellhead the flow line will be bypassed through our heat exchanger in a simple 3- valve configuration not to interfere with production. The base load electricity created 24/7 will be used on site and keep all the electricity “inside the fence”.

Principal Investigators: Robin Dahlheim, Loy Sneary