Geir Evensen’s invention has made a huge contribution to value creation on the Norwegian Shelf. (Photo: Norce)
10/07/2020
For many years, Geir Evensen has delivered invaluable efforts in the development of ensemble-based modelling methods. These methods have contributed to enormous value creation on the Norwegian Shelf.
Evensen invented the Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) algorithm in 1994 when he was a researcher at the Nansen Center. The method was originally developed for use in weather and sea forecasting. EnKF-based methods also proved to function extremely well within reservoir modelling and simulation in the petroleum industry, and are now used extensively across the globe.
Using automation and rapid and continuous updates of the reservoir models, ensemble-based methods have resulted in better understanding of the subsurface. Updated and correct information provides oil companies with a better basis for making decisions before they drill new wells or implement various IOR measures. According to the jury, the method can also yield substantial cost reductions, in part through reducing the number of wells. In the 2000s, Geir Evensen led the work of implementing EnKF in Equinor’s Fast Model Update tool.
Evensen is now chief scientist at the Norwegian Research Centre NORCE, where his tasks include leading a Petromaks 2 project for further development of ensemble methods in petroleum applications. He also works with adapting modelling methods for new areas, such as the health sector and climate forecasting.
08/12/2023
Analyses show that the Barents Sea contains significant resources, probably more gas than oil. What needs to be done if Norway is to supply Europe with the requested volumes of gas?
06/12/2023
There are vast proven gas resources on the Norwegian shelf which are currently without development plans. Much of this gas is located in tight reservoirs – which makes it difficult to produce.
06/12/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has granted Vår Energi AS drilling permit for well 7219/6-1 in production licence 1025 S, cf. Section 13 of the Resource Management Regulations.
05/12/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has conducted a mapping of gas resources that, for various reasons, have yet to be developed. Several of these discoveries could be produced in a manner that is profitable from a socio-economic perspective.
30/11/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has granted Harbour Energy Norge AS drilling permit for well 15/9-25 in production licence 1138, cf. Section 13 of the Resource Management Regulations.
16/11/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) is changing its name to the Norwegian Offshore Directorate as of 1 January 2024. The new name reflects the additional responsibilities assigned to the directorate in recent years.
16/11/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has granted Equinor Energy ASA drilling permit for well 35/11-28 S in production licence 248 C, cf. Section 13 of the Resource Management Regulations.
15/11/2023
The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has granted Neptune Energy Norge AS drilling permit for well 35/6-4 A in production licence 929, cf. Section 13 of the Resource Management Regulations.
