“Order the uncapping of existing wells that were capped 20 - 30 years ago that were pumping just fine back then, it only takes a few weeks to get them back into production”
Tell us all about these mythical “capped” wells. Include some sources too
A valid question. A post last week mentioned that these are small wells of low productivity.
Every time I see the reference to “capped wells” at this forum, I cringe.
That’s not the terminology in the oil business. Unused wells are either “plugged” or “temporarily abandoned”.
Plugged usually means pumping a few tons of concrete into them, while temporarily abandoned means setting bridge plugs at various depths. Most states limit the amount of time you can keep a well temporarily abandoned.
The notion that there are thousands of “capped” wells which would magically produce a bunch of oil if only they were “uncapped” is simply wrong. While it is certainly possible to re-enter an abandoned well and attempt something new, there are limitations depending on well design and the condition of the downhole equipment.
No oil company is keeping a “capped” well capable of producing oil in anticipation of the White House suggesting that they “uncap” it.
Actually the information is easily available so next time I am just gonna tell you to do your own homework. But here is a hint!
G-O-O-G-L-E ... S-E-A-R-C-H
Check into it, ok?
That being said, apparently there are about 400,000 capped wells in the US.
Here is an excerpt...
"It will also give new life to the capped wells in the U.S., which number approximately 400,000. Just think about the possibilities: there is an estimated 40 years of oil in capped wells in the U.S. at 21,000,000 barrels a day in usage."
And for being such a smartazz I'm gonna make you block and copy. No handy links for you!
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m5CNK/is_2006_Dec_4/ai_n24996550
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5147602
http://www.presstelegram.com/business/ci_8672275