New oil, gas reserve classifications would differentiate by development stage
MOSCOW. July 3 (Interfax) - The new version of oil and gas reserve classifications will differentiate reserves based on the degree to which they have been developed, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said in a presentation.
The new classifications divide hydrocarbon deposits into identified (reserves) and unidentified (resources).
Reserves will be divided into three categories: B, C1 and C2. Two classifications under the existing system - A and C3 - are to be dropped.
The new B classification applies to fields under development. The B reserves are to be covered by a development project, a technological plan for development, a technological plan for pilot commercial development and a technological plan for commercial development. Production of those reserves will already be underway.
The new C1 classification applies to reserves under development but not in production. They are to be covered by a technological plan for pilot commercial development of the field or horizon and a plan for commercial development of the field or horizon.
The new C2 classification applies to reserves undergoing appraisal. They will be covered by short-term documents concerning test production at individual wells and a plan for exploration and appraisal drilling.
Resources will be given D0, D1 and D2 classifications. The D1 localized classification is to be dropped.
The new D0 classification applies to prepared structures. They will be covered by an exploration and appraisal drilling plan.
The new D1 classification applies to resources in identified structures and oil and gas accumulation zones.
The new D2 classification applies to resources that have not been localized.
The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry will conduct testing of the new classifications until the end of August. It will make the necessary adjustments in September and put the new system into effect in October.