The organization in Norway draws on ExxonMobil’s technology, research efforts and experience gained worldwide. Examples are the use of 4-D seismic to plan new wells, the EM-Power – a highly advanced reservoir modeling tool used for extended reach, and horizontal wells for increased recovery from Balder, Jotun and Ringhorne fields, etc.

Norway’s research institutions are world leaders in certain fields. The parent company, ExxonMobil in the US, used amongst others Marintek, Trondheim, in developing new technology for LNG ships. 

In 2007, our company provided funding for a number of Norwegian R & D projects. OG21 (Oil and Gas in the 21st Century), is a major R & D initiative started by Norwegian authorities to develop new technology and new systems in support of continued production on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. In this program ExxonMobil has a leading role within cost efficient drilling. One of the projects entails the development of a new drilling tool named Badger Explorer – a “robot” that does not need to be connected to a rig. Badger Explorer will be able to drill into the reservoirs while simultaneously transmitting seismic information to the surface. Several small holes have been drilled by a Badger prototype. Drilling of 50-metre deep onshore testholes are prepared to be carried out in 2008, while an offshore test is planned for 2009.