Early production will come from Nanushuk development B pad, or ND-B: "Multi-phase fluids from ND-B will be transported for processing at Kuparuk CPF2 (central processing facility 2) via the 24-inch multiphase pipeline to the NPF (Nanushuk processing facility), and the 18-inch Nanushuk export pipeline from the NPF to Kuparuk CPF2," Oil Search said in its modification application.

"Temporary pigging facilities will be installed on the NPF to accommodate the change in pipeline diameter. Seawater will be transported from Kuparuk CPF2 to the NPF via an additional 12-inch water injection pipeline, and from the NPF to ND-B via the proposed 12-inch infield water injection pipeline."

Once the Oil Search's processing facility is operational in 2023 or 2024, the early production phase will end and the Nanushuk export pipeline will transition to carrying sales-quality oil from the NPF to Kuparuk CPF2, Oil Search says.

The changes requested by Oil Search are "based on local community input and to enhance engineering operational efficiency."

Other project modifications proposed involve the following:

1. Modify the ND-B pad layout.

2. Relocate the tie-in pad and modify its layout.

3. Modify the water source access road and pump house pad.

4. Update road and pad footprint and fill volumes.

5. Relocate the boat ramp and associated boat ramp access road.

6. Implement early production (early production was not mentioned in the July 2019 plan submitted by Oil Search).

Regarding the ND-B pad modification the company proposes to modify its size and layout to accommodate the newly designed grind and inject facility, reducing the gravel footprint on the west and south sides of the pad, and increasing the footprint on the east side.

- KAY CASHMAN

Editor's note: see story in Oct. 6 issue, available Friday, Oct. 4 at www.PetroleumNews.com.