US firm uses solar power to recover oil reserves
A new technology to increase oil production is being tested on one of US’s oldest oil fields in one of the largest demonstration projects of its kind.
The project was launched today by Chevron Technology Ventures at the Coalinga Field in California.
More than 7,600 mirrors are being used to focus the sun’s energy onto a solar boiler to produce steam that can then be injected into oil reservoirs to enhance oil recovery.
Desmond King, president of Chevron Technology Ventures, said: ‘This technology has the potential to augment gas-powered steam generation and may provide an additional resource in areas of the world where natural gas is expensive or not readily available.’
The heavy crude oil produced at Coalinga Field does not flow readily, so is more difficult to extract than lighter grades of crude.
Chevron currently enhances oil production from the field by injecting steam — generated by burning natural gas — to heat the crude, thereby reducing its viscosity and making it easier to recover.
During the trial, mirrors on site will track the sun and reflect its rays to a receiver positioned on a solar tower.
Register now to continue reading
Thanks for visiting The Engineer. You’ve now reached your monthly limit of news stories. Register for free to unlock unlimited access to all of our news coverage, as well as premium content including opinion, in-depth features and special reports.
Benefits of registering
-
In-depth insights and coverage of key emerging trends
-
Unrestricted access to special reports throughout the year
-
Daily technology news delivered straight to your inbox
WildFusion helps robot traverse difficult terrain
Son of Daleks? can they climb stairs?