06.25.2024
BAKKEN - Hess is the first operator in the Bakken to introduce electric hydraulic fracturing, replacing diesel-driven equipment to reduce CO2 emissions, and enhance operational efficiency and safety.
The new Halliburton redesigned electric fracturing system runs on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered electricity, using reciprocating natural gas generators. Hess is trucking the CNG from its Tioga Gas Plant, in the first application just five miles from the well pad where e-fracturing operations began earlier this month.
The company expects the e-Frac fleet will:
- Reduce CO2 emissions from Bakken hydraulic fracturing by 35%
- Speed stage-to-stage frac transitions by 30%
- Reduce maintenance
- Reduce the equipment footprint on the pad
- Promote safer operations by reducing spill potential and Red Zone areas for safer workforce movement
Hess Director of Drilling and Completions in the Bakken, Vicky Jackson Nielsen, said Halliburton redesigned the Zeus 2 Electric Fracturing System, creating modules that can be transported separately, thus allowing Hess to meet North Dakota Department of Transportation weight restrictions and creating a more mobile design. Zeus 2.2 was rolled out in April 2024.
Hess and Halliburton began planning the conversion 18 months ago, restructuring contracts, cross training the frac crew, adding automated valving, and replacing equipment.
The collaborative project also involves Missouri-based Valence Transportation trucks which transport the CNG from Tioga Gas Plant; VoltaGrid, a Houston-based firm, provides the generators.