CSEM technology as a value driver for hydrocarbon exploration

The use of the controlled source electromagnetic (CSEM) method as a risk reduction tool in marine hydrocarbon exploration is gaining increased acceptance in the oil industry. This is related to the ability to map resistivity contrasts in the sub-surface and thus aid the detection of hydrocarbons which are typically more resistive than surrounding rocks. Whereas acoustic (seismic) energy allows for mapping sub-surface structures that may contain hydrocarbons, electromagnetic (EM) energy can often say something about the fluids contained within the structures. Numerous successful CSEM case stories have been published over the past several years. However, there are also quite a few stories about “failure”-cases, although not well documented in the literature. Such “failure”-cases may reflect the lack of understanding of the CSEM technology and how CSEM data can act as a value driver. In order to understand this, it is necessary to handle uncertainties and decisions associated with the technology, These include geological uncertainties, noise models, survey designs, forward modelling parameters, inversion/migration parameters and pre-processing of real data. A proper handling of these uncertainties and decisions will aid in defining and constraining the chance of geologic success and geologic-success-case net present value for prospects prior to drilling wells. As such, the CSEM technology has a significant potential to increase exploration efficiency, if applied correctly.