JAPEX starts production from shallow reservoir at Yufutsu field, Hokkaido

Japan Petroleum Exploration Co. Ltd. (Japex) said heavy crude production started from the shallow reservoir Takinoue formation above the current producing reservoirs of Yufutsu oil and gas field at Tomakomai City, Hokkaido, Japan.

Initial production from the shallow reservoir is about 1,258 b/d. Reservoir evaluation will continue based on production data analysis and further development potential will be examined.

The presence of crude in Takinoue was confirmed by production testing in 2013. Economic viability was secured by workover of existing wells and diversion of idle production facilities, initiating development of the shallow reservoir in June 2017. Production equipment for wellheads and processing facilities for heavy oil were installed, and after production testing and commissioning in June, commercial production began.