VARIABLE RATE STEAM INJECTION, INCLUDING VIA SOLAR POWER FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

摘要

Systems and methods for variable rate steam injection, including via solar power for enhanced oil recovery, are disclosed. Several embodiments include using the variable nature of solar-generated steam to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of enhanced oil recovery processes. In particular embodiments, the variable rate injection can provide more uniform steam distribution in an oil-bearing formation, at a lower cost than if the same amount of steam were provided on a continuous basis.

主权项

1. A method for enhanced oil recovery, comprising:
directing solar-generated steam to an injection well at an oil-bearing formation, wherein the solar-generated steam is heated by concentrated solar energy; receiving an indication of at least one of an actual change or an expected change in a flow rate of additional solar-generated steam available for delivery to the injection well; and based at least in part on the indication, automatically changing a setting of a flow control valve in a steam delivery line that directs the additional solar-generated steam to the injection well.