NextEra Announces Wind Expansion Plans

NextEra Energy Resources LLC announced this week that it will expand its wind generating capacity by as much as 24 percent by the end of 2012.  The company plans to add up to 2 gigawatts of new wind power to its current total capacity of 8.3 gigawatts, according to a presentation released with the first-quarter results of its parent company, Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. NextEra's North Dakota wind farms include facilities in Barnes and Burleigh counties.  Read more...

DOE Project Cleans Fracking Flow Back Water

Washington, D.C. - A novel water cleaning technology currently being tested in field demonstrations could help significantly reduce potential environmental impacts from producing natural gas from the Marcellus shale and other geologic formations, according to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL).

ABSMaterial’s Osorb® technology, which uses swelling glass to remove impurities, has been shown to clean flow back water and produced water from hydraulically fractured oil and gas wells. Produced waters are by far the largest volume byproduct associated with oil and gas exploration and production. Approximately 21 billion barrels of produced water, containing a wide variety of hydrocarbons and other chemicals, are generated each year in the United States from nearly one million wells.

Two pilot-scale Osorb®-based water treatment systems have been built to date: a non-regenerating skid-mounted system which handles inputs of up to 4　gallons per minute, and a 60-gallon-per-minute trailer-mounted system that included a mechanism for Osorb® regeneration. ABSMaterials has used these systems on numerous water samples including flow back water from the Marcellus, Woodford, and Haynesville shale formations and produced water from the Clinton and Bakken formations.

In independent testing, the skid-mounted system was found to remove more than 99 percent of oil and grease, more than 90 percent of dissolved BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes), and significant amounts of production chemicals. Concurrent testing was performed using the trailer-mounted 60-gallon-per-minute system on produced water streams. One major oil services company conducted a full pilot test in the field using produced water from the Clinton formation in Ohio in July 2010 and March 2011. These tests showed that total petroleum hydrocarbon levels were slashed from 227 milligrams per liter to 0.1 milligrams per liter.

The results of this project have led to commercial interest from several global energy companies and future collaborative efforts. ABSMaterials also plans to deploy a trailer-mounted, 72,000-gallons-per-day water purification system for field use in North America in mid 2011.

A number of existing treatment techniques separate dispersed oils from water, taking advantage of the density difference between oil and water. However, very few technologies effectively address dissolved hydrocarbons, slicking agents, and polymers that prevent flow-back water from being recycled or discharged.

Osorb®, a hybrid organic-inorganic nano-engineered structure, is a breakthrough in hydrocarbon removal technology that rapidly swells up to eight times its dried volume upon exposure to non-polar liquids. The swelling process is completely reversible—with no loss in swelling behavior even after repeated use—when absorbed species are evaporated by heating the material.

The ABSMaterials project was funded through the federal government’s Small Business Innovation Research Program. It is the second project under FE’s Oil and Natural Gas Program to show significant success treating produced or flow-back water. Several other projects will be conducting demonstrations focusing on other water treatment technologies during the remainder of fiscal year 2011.

Source: NETL press release

Notable Wells -- April 2011

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#19389 - Brigham O&G, M. Olson 20-29 1-H, NWNE 20-154N-102W, Williams Co. 1936 bopd, 2794 bwpd – Bakken

#19189 – HESS CORPORATION, TR SLETTE 18-1H, 153-98, NENW 18-153N-98W, WILLIAMS CO. 1213 bopd, 535 bwpd - Bakken

#18675 - Burlington Resources, Franklin 24-36H, SESW 36-147N-97W, Dunn Co. 1806 bopd, 1322 bwpd – Bakken

#19442 - Newfield Production, Staal 150-99-26-35-1H, SESW 23-150N-99W, McKenzie Co. 2606 bopd, 1963 bwpd – Bakken

#19061 - Zenergy Inc., Payette 10-15H, NWNW 10-151N-104W, McKenzie Co. 1215 bopd, 877 bwpd – Bakken

#19531 - Whiting O&G, Barlow 14-6XH, Lot 7 6-152N-92W, Mountrail Co. 1055 bopd, 1865 bwpd

#19264 – FIDELITY E & P, KOSTELECKY 31-6H, LOT2- 6-139N-97W, STARK CO. 595 bopd, 258 bwpd - Three Forks 4/11/2011

#19363 – OXY USA INC., MOOSE DROOL 9-16H, SESE 9-160N-91W, BURKE CO. 200 bopd, 400 bwpd - Bakken

#19157 - EOG Resources, Bear Den 4-20H, SESE 20-150N-94W, McKenzie Co. 1476 bopd, 1583 bwpd - Bakken

#18579 - SM Energy, Jorgenson 1-30H, NENE 30-149N-95W, McKenzie Co. 2006 bopd, 862 bwpd – Bakken

#19561 – BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, LP, GIBBINS 1-12 1-H, LOT2 1-152N-104W, WILLIAMS 2305 bopd, 4681 bwpd - Bakken

#19437 – BURLINGTON RESOURCES, INGA 24-12H, SESW 12-148N-98W, MCKENZIE CO. 2805 bopd, 1843 bwpd - Bakken

#19820 - Whiting O&G, Dietz 21-17TFH, NENW 17-139N-99W, Stark Co. 843 bopd, 2273 – Bakken

#19404 - QEP Energy, Fed 1-27H-152-92, SESE 21-152N-92W, Mountrail Co. 1388 bopd, 1375 bwpd - Bakken

#19233 – MUREX PETROLEUM, MANDY KAY 14-23H, NWNW 14-156N-96W, WILLLIAMS CO. 1747 bopd, 5 bwpd - Bakken

#19302 – CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., KLEIST 1-35H, SESW 35-161N-96W, DIVIDE CO. 765 bopd, 680 bwpd - Bakken

#18435 - Denbury Onshore, Nelson 41-5H, Lot 1 5-152N-94W, McKenzie Co. 2376 bopd, 264 bwpd - Sanish

#19318 - American O&G, Hodenfield 15-23H, SWSE 23-157N-98W, Williams Co. 2042 bopd, 1687 bwpd – Bakken

#19745 - Whiting O&G, Hoover 14-1XH, SWSW 1-154N-92W, Mountrail Co. 2043 bopd, 2798 bwpd - Bakken

#19467 - QEP Energy, MHA 2-04-03H-149-90. SESE 32-150N-90W, McLean Co. 617 bopd, 2224 bwpd - Bakken

Divide County Summary - April

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

Drilling permits

#20688 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., HAGERUP 1-28H, NWNE 28-161N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 330' FNL and 1825' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, UPLAND, 18829', 9-5/8 " - 1940', 2374' Ground, API #33-023-00708, (Approved: 4/1/2011)

#20735 - CRESCENT POINT ENERGY U.S. CORP., CPEC LANCASTER 2-11-162N-102W, NWNE 2-162N-102W, DIVIDE CO., 350' FNL and 2210' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2233' Ground, API #33-023-00709 (4/13/2011)

#20756 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, STORK 20-17-162-96H, SESW 20-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 315' FSL and 2099' FWL, DEV., JUNO, 'Tight Hole', 2131' Ground, API #33-023-00710

#20757 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, LARK 29-32-162-96H, SESW 20-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 315' FSL and 2149' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2131' Ground, API #33-023-00711

#20758 - BAYTEX ENERGY USA LTD, MOE 19-18-162-100H 1PB, SWSE 19-162N-100W, DIVIDE CO., 437' FSL and 2287' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 18264', 9-5/8 " - 1600', 2254' Ground, API #33-023-00712, (Approved : 4/18/2011)

#20759 - BAYTEX ENERGY USA LTD, MOE 30-31-162-100H 1XP, SWSE 19-162N-100W, DIVIDE CO., 438' FSL and 2247' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 18980', 9-5/8 " - 1600', 2254' Ground, API #33-023 00713, (Approved : 4/18/2011)

#20768 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PIERCE 1-21H, SWSE 21-161N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 275' FSL and 1925' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, UPLAND, 'Tight Hole', 2331' Ground, API #33-023-0

#20792 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, PELICAN 26-35-162-96H, SWSE 23-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 383' FSL and 2129' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BAUKOL NOONAN, 'Tight Hole', 2267' Ground, API #33-023-00715

#20798 - NEWFIELD PRODUCTION COMPANY, SOLHEIM 160-102-28-33-1HA, SESW 21-160N-102W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FSL and 2350' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, FERTILE VALLEY, 'Tight Hole', 2144' Ground, API #33-023-00716

#20801 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, STINGRAY 18-19-162-98H, NWNE 18-162N-98W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FNL and 2370' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, AMBROSE, 'Tight Hole', 2235' Ground, API #33-023-00717

#20802 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, CHARGER 7-6-162-98H, NWNE 18-162N-98W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FNL and 2320' FEL, DEV., AMBROSE, 'Tight Hole', 2232' Ground, API #33-023-00718

Rig activity

CONTINENTAL...start date 4/3 at SWSE 8-161N-95W  (#19966)
CONTINENTAL...start date 4/1 at NENE 27-160N-96W (#20540)
SM ENERGY...start date of 4/4 at LOT1 30-163N-100W  (#20545)
BAYTEX...start date of 4/8 at SWSE 23-160N-99W  (#20587)
SAMSON...start date of 4/20 at NWNE 14-163N-99W (#20341)
SAMSON...start date of 4/24 at BLUE JAY 32-29-163-95H  (#20251)
BAYTEX...start date of 4/24 at NWNW 34-163N-99W (#20569)
CONTINENTAL...start date 4/22  at SESE 35-160N-96W (#20609)
CONTINENTAL...start date of 4/23 at SESW 22-161N-96W  (#20576)

Well files released from confidential status

#19151 – SM ENERGY COMPANY, WOLTER 13-22H, SWSW 22-163N-100W, DIVIDE CO. 18,526’ - Bakken

#19310 – NORTH PLAINS ENERGY, LLC, AARESTAD 4-27H, NWNW 27-160N-97W, DIVIDE CO. 17,540’- Bakken

#19530 – SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, NOVA 4-9-163-98H, NWNE 4-163N-98W, DIVIDE CO. 17,599’ - Bakken

#17473 – CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, FAGERLAND 1-1H, NWNE 1-161N-96W, DIVIDE CO. 299 bopd, 478 bwpd - Bakken

#90138 – CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., SCHROEDER 1 SWD, SESE 34-160N-95W, DIVIDE CO. No data - Dakota

#19334 – SAMSON RESOURCES, MALIBU 26-35-163N-98H, NWNE 26-163N-98W, DIVIDE CO. 17,783’ - Bakken

#19564 – SM ENERGY COMPANY, WOLTER 13-21H, SWSW 21-163N-100W, DIVIDE CO. 18,542’ - Bakken

Producing wells completed

#19310 - North Plains, Aarestad 4-27H, NWNW 27-160N-97W, Divide Co. 308 bopd, 1025 bwpd – Middle Bakken

#19530 - Samson Resources, Nova 4-9-163-98H, NWNE 4-163N-98W, Divide Co. 107 bopd, 1040 bopd - Bakken

Drilling Permits - April 29

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20799 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-SELBY-157-93- 0805H-1, NWNE 17-157N-93W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 250' FNL and 2350' FEL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2291' Ground, API #33-061-01741

#20800 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-NORSTEDT-157-93- 1720H-1, NWNE 17-157N-93W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 250' FNL and 2400' FEL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2291' Ground, API #33-061-01742

#20801 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, STINGRAY 18-19-162-98H, NWNE 18-162N-98W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FNL and 2370' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, AMBROSE, 'Tight Hole', 2235' Ground, API #33-023-00717

#20802 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, CHARGER 7-6-162-98H, NWNE 18-162N-98W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FNL and 2320' FEL, DEV., AMBROSE, 'Tight Hole', 2232' Ground, API #33-023-00718

#20803 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PALMER 1-25H, NENW 25-149N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 325' FNL and 1980' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, HAYSTACK BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2247' Ground, API #33-053-03594

#20804 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., ANGUS 1-9H, SESW 9-153N-94W, MCKENZIE CO., 588' FSL and 2419' FWL, DEV., ELM TREE, 'Tight Hole', 2052' Ground, API #33-053-03595

#20805 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., ANGUS 2-9H, SESW 9-153N-94W, MCKENZIE CO., 547' FSL and 2615' FWL, DEV., ELM TREE, 'Tight Hole', 2057' Ground, API #33-053-03596

#20806 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., DVIRNAK 2-7H, NENE 18-146N-95W, DUNN CO., 365' FNL and 1058' FEL, DEV., JIM CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2380' Ground, API #33-025-01366

#20807 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., DVIRNAK 3-7H, NENE 18-146N-95W, DUNN CO., 365' FNL and 968' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, JIM CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2378' Ground, API #33-025-01367

#20808 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PLETAN 3-18H, NENE 18-146N-95W, DUNN CO., 365' FNL and 1013' FEL, DEV., JIM CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2379' Ground, API #33-025-01368

#20809 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PLETAN 4-18H, NENE 18-146N-95W, DUNN CO., 365' FNL and 923' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, JIM CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2377' Ground, API #33-025-01369

Weekend Blizzard Forecast for Western ND

...A BLIZZARD WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR WESTERN AND PORTIONS OF CENTRAL NORTH DAKOTA TONIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY EVENING...link

DOE Improves Gas-Gathering Engines

Morgantown, W.Va. — With funding from the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), researchers at Kansas State University (KSU) are developing emissions control and monitoring technologies that can be applied to engines used in natural-gas-gathering systems. This alternative to engine replacement would provide the U.S. natural gas industry with a more efficient way to upgrade existing engines while mitigating greenhouse gases.

Thousands of reciprocating engines are now in service in the natural-gas-gathering industry. These engines are used to produce electricity for a leasehold, compress and re-inject natural gas for increased oil production, or compress natural gas so that it can be delivered to local gathering systems that feed ultimately into gas transmission pipelines. As the engines age, it is possible that most would need to be replaced in order to meet new federal EPA emissions regulations. Since engine replacement would be cost prohibitive to the industry, KSU is designing and testing retrofit technologies that can be installed on existing engines for a fraction of the cost.

Extensive field tests performed by KSU and their research partners—Innovative Environmental Solutions, El Paso Corporation, Pipeline Research Council International Inc., and Enginuity—have provided valuable insight into controlling emissions from gas-gathering engines. Currently available non-selective catalytic reduction (NSCR) systems were shown to simultaneously control both nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO), but only within a very small operating window, and not on a consistent basis.

KSU is developing models that will be used to improve NSCR performance and to determine enhanced, reliable environmental control strategies. Studying the possible impacts of new EPA National Ambient Air Quality Standards and NOx levels on small-engine emissions, KSU researchers found that current emission compliance measures are based on plume models that were developed for larger emission sources. KSU’s four-stroke cycle engine model and exhaust gas oxygen (EGO) sensor model will better predict emissions from small engines. Important developments and findings to date include the following:

The EGO sensor model includes a simplified methane combustion mechanism and a newly developed kinetic model for CO formation and oxidation.

Output from the EGO sensor model is comparable to experimental engine data and confirms that sensor output not only depends on the oxygen concentration, but also on the CO and hydrogen levels.

A “lean shift” has been detected when methane is present in the exhaust emissions, creating a higher output voltage from the sensor; this is due to the extra reducing species present that compete with the oxygen for the catalytic surface reactions.

A modified reaction scheme has been used in the EGO model in order to optimize calculation time.

Results of CO kinetics and emissions from the four-stroke cycle engine model are consistent with previous field tests. The model incorporates engine speed and inlet conditions in addition to trapped equivalence ratio.

The updated KSU models take into account small-engine characteristics and preferred catalytic conditions. Once validated, the models can be used in field engine control boards that can help meet new EPA emission standards by replacing outdated air fuel controllers.

Source: NETL  press release

Stark County Summary -- April



Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

Drilling permits

#20694 - FIDELITY EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION COMPANY, PARKER 29-32H, NENE 29-140N-98W, STARK CO., 345' FNL and 1229' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, GREEN RIVER, 'Tight Hole', 2595' Ground, API #33-089-00628  4/4/2011

#20695 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, SOLBERG 34-12TFH, SWSE 12-140N-99W, STARK CO., 350' FSL and 2100' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BELL, 21421', 9-5/8 " - 2150', 2589' Ground, API #33-089-00629, (Approved : 4/4/2011)

#20789 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, KADRMAS 34-10TFH, SWSE 10-139N-99W,STARK CO., 300' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ZENITH, 20234', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2614' Ground, API #33-089-00631, (Approved : 4/27/2011)

#20795 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, 3 J TRUST 34-8TFH, SWSE 8-140N-99W, STARK CO., 350' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BELL, 21459', 9-5/8 " - 2225', 2674' Ground, API #33-089-00632, (Approved : 4/28/2011)

#20796 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, RIDL 34-12TFH, SWSE 12-139N-99W, STARK CO., 275' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ZENITH, 20214', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2542' Ground, API #33-089-00633, (Approved : 4/28/2011)

Rig activity

WHITING... start date of 4/13 at NENW 18-139N-99W (#19810)
WHITING... start date of 4/11 at NENW 16-139N-99W (#20028)
WHITING... start date of 4/25 at NENW 30-140N-99W (#19967)
CONTINENTAL...start date of 4/21 at LOT 3 3-140N-99W (#20034)

Well files released from confidential status

#19585 – HALEK OPERATING ND LLC, HALEK 5-22 1, SENE 22-139N-97W, STARK CO No data – Three Forks  4/5/2011

#19601 – OIL FOR AMERICA, WIEGLENDA 23-1, NESE 23-139N-94W, STARK CO. 9450‘- Lodgepole  4/8/2011

#19264 – FIDELITY E & P, KOSTELECKY 31-6H, LOT2- 6-139N-97W, STARK CO. 595 bopd, 258 bwpd - Three Forks  4/11/2011

Confidential wells plugged or producing

#19562 - Whiting O&G, Brueni 28-1H, NENW 28-140N-98W, Stark Co.

#19820 - Whiting O&G, Dietz 21-17TFH, NENW 17-139N-99W, Stark Co. 843 bopd, 2273 – Bakken

Drilling Permits - April 28

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20791 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., MADISON 1-28H, NENW 28-155N-97W, WILLIAMS CO., 375' FNL and 1765' FWL, DEV., DOLLAR JOE, 'Tight Hole', 2328' Ground, API #33-105-02197

#20792 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, PELICAN 26-35-162-96H, SWSE 23-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 383' FSL and 2129' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BAUKOL NOONAN, 'Tight Hole', 2267' Ground, API #33-023-00715

#20793 - URSA RESOURCES GROUP LLC, WILSON 36-25 1H, SESW 36-149N-99W, MCKENZIE CO., 300' FSL and 2375' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2354' Ground, API #33-053-03593

#20794 - PETRO-HUNT, L.L.C., STATE 158-99-25A-36-1H, NWNE 25-158N-99W, WILLIAMS CO., 350' FNL and 1550' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2270' Ground, API #33-105-02198

#20795 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, 3 J TRUST 34-8TFH, SWSE 8-140N-99W, STARK CO., 350' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BELL, 21459', 9-5/8 " - 2225', 2674' Ground, API #33-089-00632, (Approved : 4/28/2011)

#20796 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, RIDL 34-12TFH, SWSE 12-139N-99W, STARK CO., 275' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ZENITH, 20214', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2542' Ground, API #33-089-00633, (Approved : 4/28/2011)

#20797 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., ENTZEL 1-26H, SESW 26-144N-97W, DUNN CO., 155' FSL and 2325' FWL, DEV., CABERNET, 'Tight Hole', 2316' Ground, API #33-025-01365

#20798 - NEWFIELD PRODUCTION COMPANY, SOLHEIM 160-102-28-33-1HA, SESW 21-160N-102W, DIVIDE CO., 220' FSL and 2350' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, FERTILE VALLEY, 'Tight Hole', 2144' Ground, API #33-023-00716

Drilling Permits - April 27

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission https://www.dmr.nd.gov/oilgas/

#20781 - ENERPLUS RESOURCES USA CORPORATION, PINE 148-94 12D-01-3H, SWSE 12-148N-94W, DUNN CO., 250' FSL and 1750' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, MCGREGORY BUTTES, 'Tight Hole', 2238' Ground, API #33-025-01361

#20782 - ENERPLUS RESOURCES USA CORPORATION, CEDAR 148-94 12D-01-4H TF, SWSE 12-148N-94W, DUNN CO., 250' FSL and 1850' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, MCGREGORY BUTTES, 'Tight Hole', 2237' Ground, API #33-025-01362

#20783 - ENERPLUS RESOURCES USA CORPORATION, MILES 151-94-28D-21H TF, SESE 28-151N-94W, MCKENZIE CO., 524' FSL and 186' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ANTELOPE, 'Tight Hole', 2315' Ground, API #33-053-03592

#20784 - ENERPLUS RESOURCES USA CORPORATION, SPRUCE 148-94 12C-01-2H TF, SESW 12-148N-94W, DUNN CO., 250' FSL and 1850' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, MCGREGORY BUTTES, Tight Hole', 2231' Ground, API #33-025-01363

#20785 - ENERPLUS RESOURCES USA CORPORATION, OAK 148-94 12C-01-1H, SESW 12-148N-94W, DUNN CO., 350' FSL and 1850' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, MCGREGORY BUTTES, 'Tight Hole', 2230' Ground, API #33-025-01364

#20786 - OASIS PETROLEUM NORTH AMERICA LLC, MILDRED 5602 43-9H, SWSE 9-156N-102W, WILLIAMS CO., 230' FSL and 1470' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BULL BUTTE, 20679', 9-5/8 " - 2130', 2182' Ground, API #33-105-02195, (Approved : 4/27/2011)

#20787 - OASIS PETROLEUM NORTH AMERICA LLC, HERBERT 5602 43-9H, SWSE 9-156N-102W, WILLIAMS CO., 230' FSL and 1370' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BULL BUTTE, 20659', 9-5/8 " - 2130', 2180' Ground, API #33-105-02196, (Approved : 4/27/2011)

#20788 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, ZALESKY 34-8TFH, SWSE 8-140N-98W, STARK CO., 350' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH CREEK, 21320', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2593' Ground, API #33-089-00630, (Approved : 4/27/2011)

#20789 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, KADRMAS 34-10TFH, SWSE 10-139N-99W, STARK CO., 300' FSL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ZENITH, 20234', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2614' Ground, API #33-089-00631, (Approved : 4/27/2011)

#20790 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., BROWN 30-19 #2H, NENW 31-156N-93W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 216' FNL and 2046' FWL, DEV., ALGER, 'Tight Hole', 2276' Ground, API #33-061-01740

Producing Wells Completed

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

Three nice wells from three producers in three counties were reported today...

#18435 - Denbury Onshore, Nelson 41-5H, Lot 1 5-152N-94W, McKenzie Co. 2376 bopd, 264 bwpd - Sanish

#19318 - American O&G, Hodenfield 15-23H, SWSE 23-157N-98W, Williams Co. 2042 bopd, 1687 bwpd – Bakken

#19745 - Whiting O&G, Hoover 14-1XH, SWSW 1-154N-92W, Mountrail Co. 2043 bopd, 2798 bwpd - Bakken

Burke County Summary - April

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

Drilling permits

#20726 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 19-1213H, NESE 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 7351' FSL and 1170' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 15217', 9-5/8 " - 1944', 2390' Ground, API #33-013-01567, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20727 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 20-1201H, NESE 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2070' FNL and 1270' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 16352', 9-5/8 " - 1944', 2387' Ground, API #33-013-01568, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20728 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 17-1213H, SWNW 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2350' FNL and 1125' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 16069', 9-5/8 " - 1921', 2367' Ground, API #33-013-01569, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20729 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 18-1201H, SWNW 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2350' FNL and 1225' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 15487', 9-5/8 " - 1921', 2364' Ground, API #33-013-01570, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20743 - OXY USA INC., ERICKSON 160-91-8-D-1H, NWNW 8-160N-91W, BURKE CO., 1163' FNL and 397' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, DIMOND, 'Tight Hole', 2395' Ground, API #33-013-01571

#20779 - OXY USA INC., HAROLDSON 160-91-14-D-1H, NWNW 14-160N-91W, BURKE CO., 865' FNL and 185' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, DIMOND, 'Tight Hole', 2307' Ground, API #33-013-01572

Rig activity

OXY USA...start date of 4/1 at SESE 11-160N-91W  (#20657)
EOG...moving in and rigging up at LOT1 30-159N-90W  (#18961)
CORNERSTONE...moving in and rigging up at SESE 33-161N-90W (#20527)

Well files released from confidential status

#19383 – PRIMA EXPLORATION, INC., GUNNISON 44-25H, SESE 25-161N-91W, BURKE CO. 12,559’ – Bakken

#19363 – OXY USA INC., MOOSE DROOL 9-16H, SESE 9-160N-91W, BURKE CO. 200 bopd, 400 bwpd - Bakken

#18241 – PETRO HARVESTER, EARL CHREST JR 2H, NWNW 26-161N-91W, BURKE CO. No data - Bakken

#20350 – OXY USA INC., ANKENBAUER 160-90-34-D-1H, NWNW SEC 34-160N-90W, BURKE CO. Permit cancelled

Drilling Permits - April 26

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20773 - PETRO HARVESTER OPERATING COMPANY, LLC, RIISE 4, SWNW 16-161N-82W, BOTTINEAU CO., 2310' FNL and 860' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, RENVILLE, 4380', 8-5/8 " - 550', 1552' Ground, API #33-009-02237, (Approved : 4/25/2011)

#20774 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, FLADELAND 11-12TFH, NWNW 12-153N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 290' FNL and 1300' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SANISH, 20549', 9-5/8 " - 2200', 2315' Ground, API #33-061-01738, (Approved : 4/26/2011)

#20775 - PETRO HARVESTER OPERATING COMPANY, LLC, RIISE 12, SWdNE 17-161N-82W, BOTTINEAU CO., 2000' FNL and 1700' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, RENVILLE, 4380', 8-5/8 " - 550', 1557' Ground, API #33-009-02238, (Approved : 4/26/2011)

#20776 - PETRO HARVESTER OPERATING COMPANY, LLC, RICE 13, NESW 9-161N-82W, BOTTINEAU CO., 1920' FSL and 1920' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, RENVILLE, 4380', 8-5/8 " - 550', 1552' Ground, API #33-009-02239, (Approved : 4/26/2011)

#20777 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, RENEGADE 34-10TFH, SWSE 10-153N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 290' FSL and 1400' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SAND CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 1890' Ground, API #33-053-03590

#20778 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., VACHAL 2-27H, NWNW 27-154N-94W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 235' FNL and 615' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, ALKALI CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2063' Ground, API #33-061-01739

#20779 - OXY USA INC., HAROLDSON 160-91-14-D-1H, NWNW 14-160N-91W, BURKE CO., 865' FNL and 185' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, DIMOND, 'Tight Hole', 2307' Ground, API #33-013-01572

#20780 - HELIS OIL & GAS COMPANY, L.L.C., HENDERSON 1-28/33H, NENE 28-150N-95W, MCKENZIE CO., 300' FNL and 1250' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, GRAIL, 'Tight Hole', 2318' Ground, API #33-053-03591

Drilling Permits - April 25

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20768 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PIERCE 1-21H, SWSE 21-161N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 275' FSL and 1925' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, UPLAND, 'Tight Hole', 2331' Ground, API #33-023-00714

#20769 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PRONGHORN 41-23H, NENE 23-131N-107W, BOWMAN CO., 410' FNL and 255' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, CEDAR HILLS, 'Tight Hole', 3048' Ground, API #33-011-01506

#20770 - DENBURY ONSHORE, LLC, SERRAHN 41-6SWH, LOT1 6-150N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 275' FNL and 925' FEL, DEV., SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2157' Ground, API #33-053-03589

#20771 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., PRONGHORN 42-23H, SENE 23-131N-107W, BOWMAN CO., 1930' FNL and 1200' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, CEDAR HILLS, 'Tight Hole', 3012' Ground, API #33-011-01507

#20772 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-ENGER-156-94- 1423H-1, NENW 14-156N-94W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 425' FNL and 2350' FWL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2227' Ground, API #33-061-01737

Drilling Permits - April 21

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20766 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., ROUND PRAIRIE 4-0805H, SESE 8-154N-103W, WILLIAMS CO., 350' FSL and 1320' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ROUND PRAIRIE, 20374', 9-5/8 " - 2055', 2281' Ground, API #33-105-02194, (Approved: 4/21/2011)

#20767 - XTO ENERGY INC., ARLENE FEDERAL 44X-11, SESE 11-149N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 579' FSL and 467' FEL, DEV., NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 2267' Ground, API #33-053-03588

Drilling Permits - April 20

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20765 - ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION CORPORATION, GEORGE MILLER 1-11-2H-142-95, SWSE 11- 142N-95W, DUNN CO., 350' FSL and 1420' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, MURPHY CREEK, 19971', 9-5/8 " - 1929', 2253' Ground, API #33-025-01360, (Approved: 4/20/2011)

State Releases Production Data

The Oil and Gas Division of the North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources recently released its latest production data...

Jan Oil 10,641,235 barrels = 343,266 barrels/day
Feb Oil 9,754,283 barrels = 348,367 barrels/day (preliminary) (all time high 356,505 Nov 2010)

Jan Gas 10,498,600 MCF = 338,653 MCF/day
Feb Gas 9,523,242 MCF = 340,116 MCF/day (preliminary) (all time high 356,446 Nov 2010)

Jan Producing Wells = 5,317
Feb Producing Wells = 5,324 (all time high 5,331 Dec 2010)

https://www.dmr.nd.gov/oilgas/directorscut/directorscut-2011-04-14.pdf

Drilling Permits - April 19

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20760 - BEHM ENERGY, INC., HALDEN 11-8, NENE 8-156N-87W, WARD CO., 500' FNL and 820' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2273' Ground, API #33-101-00483

#20761 - ZENERGY, INC, OMLID 18-19H, NENW 18-151N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 350' FNL and 1500' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, ELIDAH, 'Tight Hole', 2120' Ground, API #33-053-03586

#20762 - ZENERGY, INC, ARNSTAD 3-10H, LOT2 3-154N-103W, WILLIAMS CO., 300' FNL and 2035' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, PAINTED WOODS, 'Tight Hole', 2226' Ground, API #33-105-02193

#20763 - PRIDE ENERGY, AN OKLAHOMA GENERAL PARTNERSHIP, BEAVER CREEK STATE 1-36H, SESW 36-143N-103W, GOLDEN VALLEY CO., 210' FSL and 1660' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, BEAVER CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2537' Ground, API #33-033-00304

#20764 - XTO ENERGY INC., CROSS FEDERAL 32X-20, SWNE 20-148N-104W, MCKENZIE CO., 2152' FNL and 2132' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, MONDAK, 'Tight Hole', 2287' Ground, API #33-053-03587

Yet More Snow

A winter storm warning has been issued for the southern part of the Williston Basin for today. The area could receive up to eight inches of snow by Wednesday morning.  Farther north, total snow amounts of between one and four inches are forecast. Read more...

New Study Says Fracking Adds to Global Warmng

Posted 4/12

A new study done at Cornell University concludes that natural gas produced with hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") contributes to global warming at least as much as coal, according to a report out today on The Hill. The researchers say their findings show that fracking produces far more methane emissions than conventional gas production, which they say offsets the carbon advantage that shale gas has over coal when they’re burned for energy.   Read more...

Update 4/18

Cornell Gas Study Stirs Heated Debate
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/04/18/cornell-gas-study-stirs-heated-debate/

Drilling Permits - April 18

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20752 - SM ENERGY COMPANY, KAROMOJO 2-4H, LOT2 4-152N-104W, WILLIAMS CO., 240' FNL and 1445' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, FT. BUFORD, 'Tight Hole', 2216' Ground, API #33-105-02192

#20753 - HUNT OIL COMPANY, REDWING 1-3-10H 1, LOT3 3-148N-101W, MCKENZIE CO., 310' FNL and 1665' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2321' Ground, API #33-053-03584

#20754 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-ERICKSON-157-93- 1003H-1, SESW 10-157N-93W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 250' FSL and 2380' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SORKNESS, 'Tight Hole', 2267' Ground, API #33-061-01736

#20755 - HESS CORPORATION, HA-DAHL-152-95- 0706H-2, SESW 7-152N-95W, MCKENZIE CO., 210' FSL and 2545' FWL, DEV., HAWKEYE, 'Tight Hole', 2374' Ground, API #33-053-03585

#20756 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, STORK 20-17-162-96H, SESW 20-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 315' FSL and 2099' FWL, DEV., JUNO, 'Tight Hole', 2131' Ground, API #33-023-00710

#20757 - SAMSON RESOURCES COMPANY, LARK 29-32-162-96H, SESW 20-162N-96W, DIVIDE CO., 315' FSL and 2149' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2131' Ground, API #33-023-00711

#20758 - BAYTEX ENERGY USA LTD, MOE 19-18-162-100H 1PB, SWSE 19-162N-100W, DIVIDE CO., 437' FSL and 2287' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 18264', 9-5/8 " - 1600', 2254' Ground, API #33-023-00712, (Approved : 4/18/2011)

#20759 - BAYTEX ENERGY USA LTD, MOE 30-31-162-100H 1XP, SWSE 19-162N-100W, DIVIDE CO., 438' FSL and 2247' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 18980', 9-5/8 " - 1600', 2254' Ground, API #33-023 00713, (Approved : 4/18/2011)

New Keystone Environmental Report Released

In a draft of a 300-page supplemental environmental impact statement circulated by the U.S. State Department on Friday, the government appears ready to reject the idea of altering the route of the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline to protect the Nebraska Sandhills and the Ogallala Aquifer. A 45-day public comment period on the supplemental findings begins in a week and continues through June 6. A subsequent 90-day inter-agency review is expected to include the Environmental Protection Agency, among others. Included in the documents released Friday was another State Department affirmation of its goal to either approve or reject the project by the end of the calendar year. Read more...

House Democrats Release Fracking Report

According to a report issued late Saturday by senior House Democrats, the fluids used in hydraulic fracturing contain several toxic substances. Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce committee say their report is the first comprehensive national inventory of chemicals used by companies that engage in fracking to recover oil and gas from shale formations. Read more...

Turning Fracking Wastewater into Clean Water

Washington, DC - A water treatment system that can turn wastewater into clean water has been shown to reduce potential environmental impacts associated with producing natural gas from shale formations in the Appalachian basin.

Altela Inc.’s AltelaRain® 4000 water desalination system was tested at BLX, Inc.’s Sleppy well site in Indiana County, Pa. as part of a National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL)-sponsored demonstration. During nine continuous months of operation, the unit successfully treated 77 percent of the water stream onsite, providing distilled water as the product. The average treated water cost per barrel over the demonstration period was approximately 20 percent lower compared to the previous total conventional disposal costs at the site. The system also significantly reduced the need for trucking wastewater from the site.

Based on field data generated from the NETL demonstration, Altela increased the efficiency of its technology by more than 30 percent. All of the clean water produced at the demonstration site was suitable for beneficial re-use by well operators for additional stimulations and was also suitable to be discharged to surface waterways, thus reducing the economic and environmental impacts of clean water usage.

As a result of the DOE demonstration project, Altela designed larger towers for the system and four AltelaRain® 600 modules were sold and installed in Williamsport, Pa. to treat approximately 100,000 gallons per day of produced and flowback water from hydraulic fracturing. This commercial installation is a 50-fold increase in capacity over the demonstration unit and represents the first of many planned facilities to be developed in the Marcellus Shale Basin and similar shale gas basins throughout the United States.

Shale is fine-grained sedimentary rock that can be rich sources of petroleum and natural gas. According to the Energy Information Administration, U.S. shale gas production has increased 14-fold over the past decade and reserves have tripled. Tapping this resource with hydraulic fracturing (using pressurized liquids to fracture subsurface rock) and other techniques pioneered by NETL and its research partners has played an increasingly important role in greater U.S. domestic oil and natural gas production over the past decade.

The water resources needed to hydraulically fracture the Marcellus Shale and the potential effects of hydraulic fracturing on surface and subsurface water sources have become key concerns for state legislatures, land owners, and the public. This is especially true as the number of issued permits continues to increase and drilling expands to new areas of the Appalachian Basin.

The Altela demonstration was one of nine research projects funded by NETL through the Office of Fossil Energy’s Oil & Natural Gas Program in fiscal year 2009. The nine projects, which have a total value of $10.2 million ($7 million DOE; $3.2 million cost share), are developing environmental tools and technologies to improve management of water resources, water usage, and water treatment required for shale gas development across the United States. Several additional demonstrations focusing on other water treatment technologies will be conducted during the remainder of fiscal year 2011.

Source: NETL press release

Drilling Permits - April 15

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20748 - NEWFIELD PRODUCTION COMPANY, LINDY 156-100-10-3-1H, SWSE 10-156N-100W, WILLIAMS CO., 650' FSL and 2315' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2042' Ground, API #33-105-02191

#20749 - ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION CORPORATION, MARLENE STEFFAN 1-5-8H-141-97, SWSE 32-142N-97W, DUNN CO., 350' FSL and 1420' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ST. ANTHONY, 21240', 9-5/8 " - 2253', 2620' Ground, API #33-025-01358, (Approved : 4/15/2011)

#20750 - ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION CORPORATION, KATIE HEISER 1-12-1H-142-95, SWSE 12-142N-95W, DUNN CO., 350' FSL and 1420' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, MURPHY CREEK, 19955', 9-5/8 " - 1897', 2241' Ground, API #33-025-01359, (Approved : 4/15/2011)

#20751 - ZENERGY, INC, RINK 13-24H, NENW 13-151N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 300' FNL and 1500' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2108' Ground, API #33-053-03583
 /

Marcellus Fracking Update

Speaking to a group of Pennsylvania residents this week, a Sierra Club representative stated that the process of hydraulic fracturing is not responsible for contaminating water in the Marcellus Shale region, but rather the "product of fracking" (presumably, the waste water) left after the process is completed. The product of fracking that has leaked from containment ponds or run off drill pads in storm water has the source of most of the contaminants in the Marcellus region, according to Deborah Nardone, national director of the Sierra Club’s Natural Gas Reform Campaign. She added that spills from transporting waste water, overflow, fuel spills and storm-water drainage are other culprits. Read more...

Wind Powering America Update

The U.S. Department of Energy has released an update for its Wind Powering America program. The presentation gives a broad overview of wind energy in the United States using maps and charts to show the past and current status of wind energy development issues in the United States. Conclusions include...

• 20% wind energy penetration is possible;
• 20% penetration is not going to happen under business as usual scenario;
• policy choices will have a large impact on assessing the timing and rate of achieving a 20% goal;
• key issues are: market transformation, transmission, project diversity, technology development, policy, and public acceptance.

http://www.windpoweringamerica.gov/filter_detail.asp?itemid=746

Fuel Cell Company to Test Carbon Capture

Connecticut-based FuelCell Energy, Inc. has announced it has been awarded a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to evaluate the effectiveness of the company's fuel cell technology to efficiently separate carbon dioxide (CO2) from the emissions of industrial operations such as refineries, cement kilns and pulp and paper mills. Read more...

Snow to Continue

Snowfall ovenight has blanketed most of the western half of North Dakota with several inches of snow. Accumulation amounts ranged from 2-3 inches in most of the Williston Basin to 10-12 inches in the Morton County area southwest of Bismarck. See map...

It appears the storm has moved out of the Williston Basin, with the heaviest snowfall forecast for the central and southeast parts of the state for the remainder of the day. See map...

Drilling Permits - April 14

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20737 - NEWFIELD PRODUCTION COMPANY, OLGA 150-99-15-22-1H, NWNE 15-150N-99W, MCKENZIE CO., 330' FNL and 2645' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SOUTH TOBACCO GARDEN, 'Tight Hole', 2149' Ground, API #33-053-03579

#20741 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., DONALD 12-1 #1-H, SWSE 12-155N-103W, WILLIAMS CO., 375' FSL and 1320' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SQUIRES, 'Tight Hole', 2386' Ground, API #33-105-02190

#20742 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., FERTILE 43-2821H, NESE 28-151N-90W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 1598' FSL and 501' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, PARSHALL, 19128', 9-5/8 " - 2048', 2212' Ground, API #33-061-01734, (Approved: 4/14/2011)

#20743 - OXY USA INC., ERICKSON 160-91-8-D-1H, NWNW 8-160N-91W, BURKE CO., 1163' FNL and 397' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, DIMOND, 'Tight Hole', 2395' Ground, API #33-013-01571

#20744 - MARATHON OIL COMPANY, JANENE KNUDSVIG 24-8H, SESW 8-145N-93W, DUNN CO., 450' FSL and 1355' FWL, DEV., BAILEY, 'Tight Hole', 2282' Ground, API #33-025-01355

#20745 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, KINNOIN 11-14TFH, NWNW 14-154N-91W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 340' FNL and 1000' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SANISH, 19989', 9-5/8 " - 2200', 2315' Ground, API #33-061-01735, (Approved: 4/14/2011)

#20746 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., JACK 2-9H, SWSW 9-145N-95W, DUNN CO., 170' FSL and 540' FWL, DEV., MURPHY CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2276' Ground, API #33-025-01356

#20747 - HUNT OIL COMPANY, COOK 2-24-13H 2, SESW 24-146N-93W, DUNN CO., 375' FSL and 2150' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, WERNER, 'Tight Hole', 2299' Ground, API #33-025-01357

New Fracking Information Website

A new website called FracFocus went online this week. The site is a joint project of the Ground Water Protection Council and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission and is intended "to provide the public with objective information on hydraulic fracturing, the chemicals used, the purposes they serve and the means by which groundwater is protected." When the data base is complete, users will be able to enter a state, county, and well number and see what chemicals were used in the fracturing process, according to the site's home page. Read more...

Next-generation Biofuels

By Cole Gustafson, Biofuels Economist, NDSU Extension Service

Amyris and Gevo are two of the highest-flying stocks in the biofuels sector in 2011. Each has posted spectacular gains since January. Both firms are intriguing because their emphasis is on the production of advanced biofuels.

Advanced biofuels reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50 percent under the nation’s renewable fuel standard program. Amyris is unique in that it is focusing on the production of biodiesel using specialized yeast that utilizes sugarcane as its feedstock.

First-generation biodiesels were derived from transesterification of agricultural oils, especially soybean and canola oils. More recently, corn oil obtained from additional fractionation of corn entering ethanol plants also has been used as a biodiesel feedstock.

Producing next-generation biodiesel or “renewable diesel” is a completely different process than the production of traditional biodiesel. Instead of relying on chemical catalysts, these new diesel fuels are produced from biohydrocarbons obtained from inedible plants, algae or waste streams and then processed into biodiesel using proprietary bacteria. This reduces the pressure on global food production and tailpipe emissions. Furthermore, they are designed to be “drop-in” true diesels that can be placed in a pipeline and used without any limitations on how much can be used.

Minnesota, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington have state biodiesel blending requirements. Minnesota’s statute, which was enacted in 2005, has been waived several times because of biodiesel quality problems. However, the law is in effect again.

Last year, Amyris announced that it had surpassed critical ASTM testing and received Environmental Protection Agency approval to raise its registered blend level of ultralow sulfur diesel from 20 to 35 percent, which is the highest blend rate approved for either ethanol or biodiesel.

Gevo is constructing a plant in southern Minnesota to produce biobutanol from sugar beets. The common denominator between Amyris and Gevo is the use of sugar instead of cellulose. Sugar is abundant in many other crops, including sweet sorghum.

Producing biodiesel from algae has garnered much public attention during the past couple of years. However, recent studies have questioned how ready the industry is for commercialization. For example, the Energy Biosciences Institute categorized the effort as a “nascent industry” that will require more substantial long-term research, development, demonstration and deployment.

Source: NDSU Agriculture Communication

Texas Wind Farm to Store Energy with Batteries

Duke Energy Corp. has announced it plans to install a battery network at a wind farm in west Texas that will allow up to 36-megawatts of surplus energy to be stored and discharged later during periods of peak demand. The project received a $22 million grant from the Department of Energy and is expected ot be ready for service late next year. Read more...

More Snow on the Way

Much of the Williston Basin could get from three to six inches of snow between tonight and Friday, according to the latest forecast.

Disposal Key to Safe Fracking, Witness Tells Senators

In testimony before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee yesterday, Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jeff Cloud stated there has not been a single documented instance of contamination to groundwater or drinking water as a result of hydraulic fracturing during the 50 years the process has been used. Cloud said that statement includes over 100,000 wells in Oklahoma. The key to his state's safety record, Cloud said, is that Oklahoma requires the fluids used in fracking to be either recycled or injected into wells instead of being taken to municipal wastewater treatment plants as reportedly occurs in some areas. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 13

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20734 - XTO ENERGY INC., BENNIE PEER 14X-34, SWSW 34-148N-104W, MCKENZIE CO., 453' FSL and 768' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, MONDAK, 'Tight Hole', 2207' Ground, API #33-053-03578

#20735 - CRESCENT POINT ENERGY U.S. CORP., CPEC LANCASTER 2-11-162N-102W, NWNE 2-162N-102W, DIVIDE CO., 350' FNL and 2210' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2233' Ground, API #33-023-00709

#20736 - NEWFIELD PRODUCTION COMPANY, JACKMAN 156-100-11-2-1H, SESW 11-156N-100W, WILLIAMS CO., 400' FSL and 2280' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2140' Ground, API #33-105-02189

#20738 - HESS CORPORATION, HA-MOGEN-152-95- 0805H-2, SWSE 8-152N-95W, MCKENZIE CO., 231' FSL and 2200' FEL, DEV., HAWKEYE, 'Tight Hole', 2347' Ground, API #33-053-03580

#20739 - HESS CORPORATION, HA-THOMPSON-152-95- 1720H-2, NENW 17-152N-95W, MCKENZIECO., 355' FNL and 2635' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, HAWKEYE, 'Tight Hole', 2332' Ground, API #33-053-03581

#20740 - DENBURY ONSHORE, LLC, SWENSON 41-33SEH, NENE 33-153N-95W, MCKENZIE CO., 475' FNL and 670' FEL, DEV., CHARLSON, 'Tight Hole', 2247' Ground, API #33-053-03582

New Carbon Capture Report Released

A side-by-side comparison of the most promising technologies for advanced carbon capture of coal-fired emissions reveals that the processes are still costly, despite improvements, according to a new report from information and analysis provider IHS (NYSE: IHS). The IHS report examined the technology and economics of 10 processes for the post-combustion capture of carbon emissions from electric power generation using pulverized coal. Read more...

Wind Turbine Lab Coming to UND

According to an article in the Grand Forks Herald, LM Wind Power announced last week that it is opening a new research and development lab on the campus of the University of North Dakota. Working with UND researchers and students, the lab will develop and refine advanced materials used in the company's wind turbine blades. LM Wind Power already has a turbine blade plant in Grand Forks that employs approximately 440 workers, according to the Herald article. Read more..

Senators Debate Fracking Safety

Several Democratic senators said in a hearing yesterday that the Environmental Protection Agency should increase its regulation of the natural gas industry to keep toxic chemicals used in drilling from entering the public water supply, according to a report in the New York Times. Senate Republicans, state regulators and some environmental advocates testified that further EPA oversight is unnecessary and that there are no cases of contaminated drinking water being linked directly to drilling practices such as hydraulic fracturing, the Times reported. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 12

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20733 - SM ENERGY COMPANY, STENBERG 16-8H, SESE 8-151N-99W, MCKENZIE CO., 1300' FSL and 200' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2341' Ground, API #33-053-03577

McKenzie Gas Plant Update

A recent news report by KFYR-TV updates progress on the natural gas processing plant being constructed by Oklahoma-based Hiland Partners in McKenzie County. The report highlights the multiple products the plant will produce from natural gas liquids, such as propane, butane and natural gasoline. Read more...

Wind Farm Project Gets Investment

Wind Works Power Corp. has acquired a 75% interest in Thunder Spirit, a 150 megawatt (MW) wind energy project to be located in southeastern North Dakota. Construction is currently planned to begin in 2012. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 11

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20726 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 19-1213H, NESE 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 7351' FSL and 1170' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 15217', 9-5/8 " - 1944', 2390' Ground, API #33-013-01567, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20727 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 20-1201H, NESE 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2070' FNL and 1270' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 16352', 9-5/8 " - 1944', 2387' Ground, API #33-013-01568, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20728 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 17-1213H, SWNW 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2350' FNL and 1125' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 16069', 9-5/8 " - 1921', 2367' Ground, API #33-013-01569, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20729 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., VANVILLE 18-1201H, SWNW 12-159N-91W, BURKE CO., 2350' FNL and 1225' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, THOMPSON LAKE, 15487', 9-5/8 " - 1921', 2364' Ground, API #33-013-01570, (Approved: 4/8/2011)

#20730 - BTA OIL PRODUCERS, LLC, 20711 LONG 112 1-H, LOT3 1-154N-99W, WILLIAMS CO., 225' FNL and 1600' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, STOCKYARD CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2288' Ground, API #33-105-02188

#20731 - ZENERGY, INC, HAGEN 31-30H, SWSE 31-152N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 310' FSL and 1856' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BANKS, 'Tight Hole', 2275' Ground, API #33-053-03575

#20732 - ZENERGY, INC, WHITE 6-7H, SWSE 31-152N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 241' FSL and 2044' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2272' Ground, API #33-053-03576

New Wind Turbine Ready for Market

Nordex USA, Inc. has announced it will debut its new N117/2400 wind turbine for the US market at WINDPOWER in Anaheim, California from May 22-25, 2011. The latest addition to the company’s Gamma Generation of turbines, the N117 is designed specifically for light wind sites, which the company says creates new power generating potential for locations across the country.  Nordex will begin producing the N117 at its new US manufacturing plant in Jonesboro, Arkansas, which opened in October 2010.

http://www.nordex-online.com/en/news-press/news-detail.html?tx_ttnews[tt_news]=2164&tx_ttnews[backPid]=1&cHash=325758ad0b

Renewable Energy Standard Bill Introduced in Senate

In an attempt to establish a federal Renewable Energy Standard, U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-NM) and Mark Udall (D-CO) have introduced legislation that would require utilities to generate 25 percent of their electricity from wind, solar and other renewable energy sources by 2025. The bill would set the first national threshold for utilities to provide a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable resources - with a 6 percent requirement by 2013, followed by gradual increases thereafter to meet the 25 percent by 2025 goal. Read more...

USDA Promotes Blender Pumps

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced a new USDA program that will provide funding for installation of flexible fuel pumps. USDA is issuing a rule to clarify that the definition of renewable energy systems in the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) includes flexible fuel pumps, sometimes referred to as "blender pumps." This clarification is intended to provide fuel station owners with incentives to install flexible fuel pumps that will offer Americans more renewable energy options. The Obama administration has set a goal of installing 10,000 flexible fuel pumps nationwide within 5 years. Read more...

NextEra Leading Wind Producer

According to a recent report by the American Wind Energy Association, Florida-based NextEra Energy Resources is the nation's top wind project owner. NextEra generates roughly 8,000 megawatts of power from wind projects in 17 states, including North Dakota, and has more than 20 percent of the U.S. wind energy market--nearly twice as much as its closest competitor. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 8

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20723 - PETRO-HUNT, L.L.C., HOKANSON 158-99-32D-29-1H, SWSE 32-158N-99W, WILLIAMS CO., 310' FSL and 1550' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2173' Ground, API #33-105-02187

#20724 - XTO ENERGY INC., JOHNSON FEDERAL 11X-15, NWNW 15-149N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 1033' FNL and 1071' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 1965' Ground, API #33-053-03573

#20725 - XTO ENERGY INC., CHERRY CREEK 11X-15, NWNW 15-149N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 947' FNL and 1097' FWL, DEV., NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 1966' Ground, API #33-053-03574

April Starts Strong

As the weather begins to moderate, activity is picking up in the Williston Basin. An unofficial count shows 33 new well starts since April 1 for an average over 4 per day.  The total rig count stands at 173, up two from yesterday and one less than the record high set last month. The starts by county are shown below...https://www.dmr.nd.gov/oilgas/

Burke

OXY USA Burke #20657 4/1

Divide

CONTINENTAL Divide #20540 4/1
CONTINENTAL Divide #19966 4/3

Dunn

ANSCHUTZ Dunn #19159 4/3
ANSCHUTZ Dunn #19180 4/4
MARATHON Dunn #20450 4/5
SLAWSON Dunn #20147 4/5
ANSCHUTZ Dunn #18611 4/7
QEP Dunn #20487 4/7

McKenzie

SM ENERGY McKenzie #20592 4/1
NEWFIELD McKenzie #19600  4/3
NEWFIELD McKenzie #20108 4/4
HESS McKenzie #19723 4/5
OASIS  McKenzie  #20197  4/5
HELIS McKenzie #19894 4/6
DENBURY McKenzie #19544 4/7

Mountrail

HESS Mountrail #20649 4/1
HESS Mountrail #20651 4/1
OASIS Mountrail #20202 4/1
WHITING Mountrail #20187 4/2
EOG Mountrail #20448 4/6
BRIGHAM Mountrail #18981 4/7
HESS Mountrail #20361 4/7
HESS Mountrail #19079 4/8
HESS Mountrail #19570 4/8
HESS Mountrail #19987 4/8
HESS Mountrail #20539 4/8

Williams

NORTH PLAINS Williams #19970 4/3
EOG Williams #19419 4/3
BRIGHAM Williams #20640 4/4
CONTINENTAL Williams #20491 4/6
EOG Williams #19928 4/7
EOG Williams # 20069 4/8

AWEA Releases 2010 Wind Statistics

America’s wind power industry grew by 15% in 2010 and provided 26% of all new electric generating capacity in the United States, according to figures released today by the American Wind Energy Association. With the 5,116 MW added last year, U.S. wind installations now stand at 40,181 MW, enough to supply electricity for over 10 million American homes. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 7

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20714 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., JOHNSTON 7-6 1H, SESE 7-152N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 323' FSL and 778' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BANKS, 'Tight Hole', 2333' Ground, API #33-053-03568

#20715 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., BEAUX 18-19 1H, SESE 7-152N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 298' FSL and 778' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BANKS, 'Tight Hole', 2334' Ground, API #33-053-03569

#20716 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., MARVIN 27-34 #1-H, NWNE 27-152N-101W, MCKENZIE CO., 352' FNL and 1533' FEL, DEV. CAMP, 'Tight Hole', 1959' Ground, API #33-053-03570

#20717 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., HILLY 22-15 #1-H, NWNE 27-152N-101W, MCKENZIE CO., 330' FNL and 1546' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, CAMP, 'Tight Hole', 1960' Ground, API #33-053-03571

#20718 - BALLANTYNE OIL, LLC, WIBORG 3-5, SWNE 5-162N-79W, BOTTINEAU CO., 2014' FNL and 1950' FEL, DEV., SOUTHWEST LANDA, 'Tight Hole', 1466' Ground, API #33-009-02235

#20719 - DENBURY ONSHORE, LLC, BERGEM 44-28NWH, SESE 28-151N-99W, MCKENZIE CO., 350' FSL and 1100' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, TOBACCO GARDEN, 'Tight Hole', 2122' Ground, API #33-053-03572

#20720 - BALLANTYNE OIL, LLC, OLSON 2, NESE 8-162N-79W, BOTTINEAU CO., 1980' FSL and 150' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SOUTHWEST LANDA, 'Tight Hole', 1481' Ground, API #33-009-02236

#20721 - SLAWSON EXPLORATION COMPANY, INC., MUSTANG 2-22H, NWNW 22-151N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 320' FNL and 1275' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, VAN HOOK, 'Tight Hole', 2003' Ground, API #33-061-01733

#20722 - OXY USA INC., ANKENBAUER 160-90-34-P-1H, SESE 34-160N-90W, BURKE CO., 1000' FSL and 370' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, DIMOND, 'Tight Hole', 2335' Ground, API #33-013-01566

TransCanada Updates Keystone Easement Progress

TransCanada Corp. announced yesterday that it has reached easement agreements with 83 percent of the landowners in 10 states along the proposed route of the Keystone XL petroleum pipeline. The company says 87 percent of the landowners in the Nebraska Sand Hills--where environmentalists say the pipeliine could adversely impact water supplies--have signed agreements. TransCanada now plans to begin condemnation proceedings to obtain the remaining easements, according to yesterday's announcement. Read more...

PSC to Hold Meetings on Coal Mine Project

The North Dakota Public Service Commission plans to hold two public meetings on June 28 to discuss a proposed coal mine in western Stark County. The meetings will held on the campus of Dickinson State University. A permit for the mine is being sought by a subsidiary of Texas-based Great Northern Project Development. The company previously filed permit applications in March 2010 and November 2010.  Both were rejected due to numerous deficiencies. The PSC accepted the current application in January.

- http://www.kxnet.com/custom404.asp?404;http://www.kxnet.com/news/755362.asp
- http://finance.yahoo.com/news/ND-South-Heart-coal-mine-apf-1843330080.html?x=0&.v=1
- http://www.allbusiness.com/energy-utilities/coal-industry-coal-mining/15266251-1.html

Vote on Ethanol Subsidy Expected this Week

The ethanol industry is watching the Senate this week as an important subsidy measure comes up for a vote. The measure, sponsored by Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla, would eliminate the so-called blender tax credit given to refineries who use ethanol as a gasoline additive. The vote would determine if the measure is added to a pending small business bill.  Read more...

IEA Releases Clean Energy Progress Report

The International Energy Agency on Wednesday released its first Clean Energy Progress Report, which assesses global deployment of clean energy technologies and provides recommendations to countries on future action and spending.

The report was presented on 6 April in Abu Dhabi at the second Clean Energy Ministerial meeting. The report finds that while impressive progress has been made in developing clean energy technologies in recent years, the success stories are being overshadowed by surging demand for fossil fuels, which are outstripping deployment of clean energy technologies. Coal has met 47% of the global new electricity demand over the past decade, eclipsing clean energy efforts made over the same period of time, which include improved implementation of energy efficiency measures and rapid growth in the use of renewable energy sources.

In order to change this status quo, the IEA argues that more aggressive clean energy policies are required, including the removal of fossil fuel subsidies and the implementation of transparent, predictable and adaptive incentives for cleaner energy options.

Key findings

 Thanks to favourable policy support, solar PV and windpower are achieving strong growth. However, achieving sustainable energy goals will require a doubling of all renewable energy use by 2020. There are also signs that policy support is weakening due to government austerity plans. Instead of eliminating successful policies, governments need to put in place dynamic schemes that respond to technology markets.

 For the past decade, coal has been the fastest‐growing global energy source, meeting 47% of new electricity demand. Extensive deployment of CCS is critical to achieve climate change goals: around 100 large‐scale projects are needed by 2020, but countries must accelerate their policy and funding support for the large‐scale CCS demonstrations.

 Biofuels have shown steady growth, but still only represent 3% of global road transport fuel consumption. A sound policy framework is required to ensure the sustainable growth of biofuel production by ten‐fold to reach climate change targets in 2050. Commercialisation of advanced, sustainable biofuels will be particularly critical to meet targets, and will require significant expansion of production capacity.

 Electric vehicles are poised to take off. Major economies have announced targets that together would reach about 7 million vehicle sales per year by 2020. If achieved, this will result in over 20 million electric vehicles on the road by that year, taking into account all sales over the next 9 years. However, this will only account for about 2% of light‐duty vehicle stocks worldwide; continued strong growth after 2020 will be important to ensure market transformation. Fuel economy of conventional light‐duty vehicles has also been improving recently, but will need to improve faster to achieve a global target of 50% improvement by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.

http://www.iea.org/press/pressdetail.asp?PRESS_REL_ID=410

Senate Rejects Limits on EPA's Emissions Authority

Reuters reported late today that the Senate has rejected a measure to permanently stop the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gas emissions blamed for global warming. The Senate also rejected three other amendments sponsored by Democrats that would have limited the EPA's authority to regulate emissions, according to the Reuters report.  Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 6

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20708 - ZENERGY, INC, NELSON 24-13H, SESW 24-157N-100W, WILLIAMS CO., 280' FSL and 1580' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2030' Ground, API #33-105-02186

#20709 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., ENNS 28-21 #1-H, SESE 28-158N-91W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 325' FSL and 1280' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, KITTLESON SLOUGH, 'Tight Hole', 2345' Ground, API #33-061-01732

#20710 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., BARKLEY 1-5H, LOT3 5-152N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 170' FNL and 2255' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, TWIN VALLEY, 'Tight Hole', 1934' Ground, API #33-053-03564

#20711 - ZENERGY OPERATING COMPANY, LLC, DAKOTA-3 LUCY LONE FIGHT 16-22H, SESE 22-149N-94W, MCKENZIE CO., 299' FSL and 300' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SQUAW CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2167' Ground, API #33-053-03565

#20712 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., TOPAZ 20-17 #1H, SESE 20-153N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 257' FSL and 810' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BANKS, 'Tight Hole', 2031' Ground, API #33-053-03566

#20713 - BRIGHAM OIL & GAS, L.P., SAMSON 29-32 #1H, SESE 20-153N-97W, MCKENZIE CO., 233' FSL and 810' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BANKS, 'Tight Hole', 2031' Ground, API #33-053-03567

New Report Questions Wind Farm Output

A new report based on research over a two-year period concludes that metered wind farms in the United Kingdom consistently generated less energy than wind proponents claim is typical.  Researchers determined the average output from wind was 24.08% of rated capacity between November 2008 and December 2010, which they say contradicts the assertion commonly made by the wind industry that wind turbines will generate on average 30% of their rated capacity over a year. In addition, the study found that at each of the four highest peak demand periods in 2010 wind output was low and that wind generation was below 20% of capacity for more than half the period of the study, which was sponsored by a leading wild lands conservation group in the U.K. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 5

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20700 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, WHITETAIL CREEK FEDERAL 11-26TFH, NWNW 26-144N-101W, BILLINGS CO., 485' FNL and 330' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, ELKHORN RANCH, 20808', 9-5/8 " - 2025', 2606' Ground, API #33-007-01678, (Approved : 4/5/2011)

#20701 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, KORDON 11-8TFH, NWNW 8-143N-101W, BILLINGS CO., 440' FNL and 1265' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, ELKHORN RANCH, 20335', 9-5/8 " - 2000', 2372' Ground, API #33-007-01679, (Approved : 4/5/2011)

#20702 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, TEDDY 14-26TFH, SWSW 26-143N-101W, BILLINGS CO., 350' FSL and 442' FWL, WC, ELKHORN RANCH, 21728', 9-5/8 " - 2100', 2747' Ground, API #33-007-01680, (Approved : 4/5/2011)

#20703 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, MERTON 31-15MBH-2NH, NWNE 15-149N-96W, MCKENZIE CO., 250' FNL and 2320' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 2358' Ground, API #33-053-03560

#20704 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, JEROME 31-15MBH-3SH, NWNE 15- 149N-96W, MCKENZIE CO., 250' FNL and 2365' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 2355' Ground, API #33-053-03561

#20705 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, MERTON 31-15TFH-3NH, NWNE 15- 149N-96W, MCKENZIE CO., 250' FNL and 2555' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 2338' Ground, API #33-053-03562

#20706 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, JEROME 31-15TFH-2SH, NWNE 15-149N-96W, MCKENZIE CO., 250' FNL and 2600' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH FORK, 'Tight Hole', 2338' Ground, API #33-053-03563

#20707 - G3 OPERATING, LLC, PASTERNAK 1-1-12H, LOT2 1-157N-103W, WILLIAMS CO., 355' FNL and 2395' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, STRANDAHL, 'Tight Hole', 2342' Ground, API #33-105-02185

Spiritwood Update

Great River Energy's coal-fired electricity plant near Spiritwood, N.D. was featured over the weekend in the Minneapolis StarTribune. The bulk of the article discusses Great River's plan for complying with the 2007 Minnesota Next Generation Energy Act, which bars companies from transmitting coal-generated power into Minnesota unless carbon-dioxide pollution is offset with emission reductions elsewhere.

According to the StarTribune article, Great River says it will comply with the law by using dried coal from its Coal Creek plant north of Bismarck, which the company says will reduce emissions by roughly four percent and offset the increased emissions produced by the power being transmitted to Minnesota. However, a Minnesota environmental group is challenging that plan, saying that Great River should be required to buy carbon-offset credits or make a carbon-reducing investment to satisfy the offset rule.

The North Dakota Industrial Commission wrote to Minnesota lawmakers last month requesting the repeal of Minnesota's restrictions on imported electricity, but Gov. Mark Dayton has indicated he would veto such a bill. The North Dakota attorney general's office has stated that it plans to file a suit against Minnesota if the law is not modified or overturned. Meanwhile, the Spiritwood plant sits idle with startup delayed until early 2012.

http://www.startribune.com/business/119094384.html

http://www.greatriverenergy.com/makingelectricity/spiritwood_fact_sheet.pdf

http://ndenergynotes.blogspot.com/2011/03/nd-industrial-commission-asks-for.html

Manitoba Wind Farm Completed

Pattern Energy Group LP today announced its St. Joseph Wind project – the largest wind farm in Manitoba – has completed construction and is now fully operational. The 138 megawatt (MW) wind energy project, which is located in the southern Manitoba community of St. Joseph, can produce enough power every year to serve the needs of 50,000 homes in the Manitoba area. Read more...

Drilling Permits - April 4

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

#20693 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., JEFFERSON 1-17H, NENW 17-153N-99W, WILLIAMS CO., 300' FNL and 2150' FWL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 2244' Ground, API #33-105-02182

#20694 - FIDELITY EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION COMPANY, PARKER 29-32H, NENE 29-140N-98W, STARK CO., 345' FNL and 1229' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, GREEN RIVER, 'Tight Hole', 2595' Ground, API #33-089-00628

#20695 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, SOLBERG 34-12TFH, SWSE 12-140N-99W, STARK CO., 350' FSL and 2100' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BELL, 21421', 9-5/8 " - 2150', 2589' Ground, API #33-089-00629, (Approved : 4/4/2011)

#20696 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-MEIERS A-156-93- 13H-1, LOT1 18-156N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 650' FNL and 315' FWL, DEV., ALGER, 'Tight Hole', 2346' Ground, API #33-061-01730

#20697 - OASIS PETROLEUM NORTH AMERICA LLC, THOMPSON 5601 43-24H, SWSE 24-156N-101W, WILLIAMS CO., 240' FSL and 1320' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 20265', 9-5/8 " - 2023', 1958' Ground, API #33-105-02183, (Approved : 4/4/2011)

#20698 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., SALEM 1-6H, NWNE 6-155N-97W, WILLIAMS CO., 225' FNL and 1980' FEL, DEV., DOLLAR JOE, 'Tight Hole', 2422' Ground, API #33-105-02184

#20699 - HUNT OIL COMPANY, KARBOWSKI 2-22H 2, NWNW 22-154N-90W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 400' FNL and 240' FWL, DEV., PARSHALL, 'Tight Hole', 2272' Ground, API #33-061-01731

ND Senate Considers Potash Tax

The North Dakota Senate reportedly is considering legislation that sets the state's potash tax rate at 1.5 percent. Under the measure, each mine's home county would receive the first $1 million in tax revenue after which the state would get 90 percent. A bill passed by the North Dakota House in February set the rate at 4 percent and gave more of the tax revenue to the counties. London-based Dakota Salts has expressed interest in mining potash in Burke County. The company has estimated its project could begin within two years.

http://www.bismarcktribune.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/2011_session/article_f57ba59e-5ed7-11e0-9217-001cc4c03286.html

Xcel Backs Away from Merricourt Wind Project

Xcel Energy reportedly has abandoned plans to build a 150-megawatt wind farm in southeastern North Dakota. The $400-million project was expected to go online this year. Xcel, based in Minneapolis, cited the cost of mitigating the project's impacts on endangered bird species as the primary reason for the decision. Read more...

House Hearing Highlights Importance of Keystone XL

At a public hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere last week, members of the U.S. House of Representatives heard testimony from policy experts on the "Rising Oil Prices and Dependence on Hostile Regimes: The Urgent Case for Canadian Oil." The hearing, which was chaired by Representative Connie Mack (R-FL), highlighted the economic, energy and national security benefits of the Keystone XL pipeline. Read more...

EIA Says Emissions Dropped by Nearly 6% in 2009

According to a new report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the total U.S. anthropogenic (human-caused) greenhouse gas emissions in 2009 were 5.8 percent below the 2008 total. EIA researchers stated the decrease resulted primarily from three factors: an economy in recession, a particularly hard-hit energy-intensive industries sector, and a large drop in the price of natural gas that caused fuel switching away from coal to natural gas in the electric power sector.

http://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/ghg_report/

New Switchgrass Variety Boosts Ethanol Production

Bioethanol from new lines of native perennial prairie grass could become less costly because of plant engineering by The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation and fermentation research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

In a paper published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers describe their transgenic version of switchgrass as one that produces about one-third more ethanol by fermentation than conventional switchgrass. Researchers say this improved plant feedstock will be able to generate more biofuel per acre, benefiting not only the transportation sector but also the growers and farming community

http://www.ornl.gov/info/press_releases/get_press_release.cfm?ReleaseNumber=mr20110214-00

BLM to Hold Fracking Forums

WASHINGTON, DC – Bureau of Land Management Director Bob Abbey yesterday announced that the BLM will hold a series of regional public forums in late April to further discuss the use of hydraulic fracturing techniques to stimulate natural gas production on Federal lands. The sessions will be held in Bismarck, North Dakota; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Denver, Colorado. These locations will help to highlight increased regional interest in natural gas development on Federal lands and other areas where the BLM has responsibility for mineral leasing.

“These forums will help inform BLM as we work closely with industry, the states, other Federal agencies and the public to develop a way forward on natural gas so that the United States can safely and fully realize the benefits of this important energy resource,” Director Abbey said. “The Interior Department has a responsibility to study the potential impacts and to identify commonsense, best management practices that should be used in fracturing operations on public lands to ensure that this development is carried out in the right way and in the right places.”

The regional forums will build upon a forum the Department of the Interior hosted in November 2010 in Washington, D.C. on best practices for hydraulic fracturing and will provide a more in-depth, technical review of natural gas development practices on public lands. The meetings are part of the Department’s proactive efforts to ensure that oil and gas development is taking place on public lands in a responsible and environmentally sustainable manner.

Topics to be discussed will include best management practices, disclosure of the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing fluids, well construction and integrity, production wastewater management and other techniques for protecting drinking water resources. Panelists will include experts from Federal and state governments, industry, and environmental organizations that have been engaged in natural gas development issues.

Safely harnessing the nation’s abundant natural gas resources is a vital component of America’s energy portfolio and has the potential to power the U.S. economy for decades to come and reduce dependence on foreign oil. Natural gas development on Federal lands has more than doubled over the last 20 years, from 1.2 trillion cubic feet in Fiscal Year 1991 to nearly 3.0 trillion cubic feet in Fiscal Year 2010. In Fiscal Year 2010, about 14 percent of domestically produced natural gas came from onshore public lands.

The BLM issues leases for natural gas development on lands managed by the BLM as well as lands managed by other Federal agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service. The BLM also manages the subsurface mineral estate in a number of areas where the surface is privately owned. The use of hydraulic fracturing in these areas has similarly increased in recent years.

Source: BLM press release

Dakota Spirit Update

Dakota Spirit AgEnergy, a proposed cellulosic biorefinery near Spiritwood, N.D., has evolved from a 20 million gallon per year (MGY) cellulosic ethanol plant into a 58 MGY “hybrid” ethanol plant comprised of a 50 MGY dry mill ethanol plant (Phase I) and an 8 MGY cellulosic ethanol addition (Phase II).

The changes are driven in part by the results of a recently completed “Feedstock Supply and Product Marketing Study” that was funded in part by the North Dakota Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC).
 
The feedstock study showed that Dakota Spirit AgEnergy would need corn stover plus wheat straw from an expanded 100 mile radius to adequately source enough residue material for a 20 MGY cellulosic biorefinery. The amount of residue needed from such a large area was a limiting factor for a plant of this size.

The product market study verified the market values for the three main product streams – ethanol, molasses and lignin – across various market applications.

The 50 MGY conventional ethanol plant would utilize corn to produce ethanol, corn oil and dried distillers grains. The 8 MGY second-generation ethanol plant would utilize corn stover and wheat straw to produce cellulosic ethanol, C5 molasses, and lignin, a boiler fuel.
 
http://www.dakotaspiritagenergy.com/documents/2011.03.29DakotaSpiritAgEnergynewsrelease.pdf

Williams County Update -- 3/28 - 4/1

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

New starts

HESS Williams #20366 3/29
EOG Williams #19348 3/31

Drilling permits

#20678 - ZENERGY, INC, WALSTAD 4-9H, LOT2 4-157N-100W, WILLIAMS CO., 290' FNL and 1950' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 1945' Ground, API #33-105-02179

#20679 - ZENERGY, INC, WALSTAD 33-28H, LOT2 4-157N-100W, WILLIAMS CO., 290' FNL and 1750' FEL, WC, WILDCAT, 'Tight Hole', 1951' Ground, API #33-105-02180

#20686 - ZENERGY, INC, IRWIN 14-23H, NENE 14-153N-103W, WILLIAMS CO., 435' FNL and 1301' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, LAKE TRENTON, 'Tight Hole', 1988' Ground, API #33-105-02181

Well files released from confidential status

#18556 – XTO ENERGY, INC., HOLTE 21X-4, LOT3 4-156N-96W, WILLIAMS CO. 280 bopd, 936 bwpd - Bakken

#18944 – XTO ENERGY, INC., HELEN 11X-5, LOT4 5-154N-96W, WILLIAMS CO. 907 bopd, 1228 bwpd - Bakken

#19328 – ZAVANNA, LLC., EARL 1-13H, SESE 13-154N-99W, WILLIAMS CO. 17,342’ - Bakken

#19412 – BRIGHAM O&G, KALIL FARMS 14-23 #1-H, NENW 14-156N-103W, WILLIAMS CO. 30,052’ - Bakken

#20292 – HESS CORPORATION, JOHNSON 15-22H, SESW 22-157N-97W, WILLIAMS CO. Permit cancelled

Dunn County Update -- 3/28 - 4/1

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission https://www.dmr.nd.gov/oilgas/

New starts

XTO Dunn #19805 3/29

Drilling permits

#20675 - HESS CORPORATION, REGETH 22-1H, SESW 22-143N-95W, DUNN CO., 325' FSL and 1930' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, MURPHY CREEK, 'Tight Hole', 2250' Ground, API #33-025-01352

#20685 - MARATHON OIL COMPANY, BEN RECKARD 41-27H, NENE 27-146N-94W, DUNN CO., 787' FNL and 500' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, BAILEY, 'Tight Hole', 2345' Ground, API #33-025-01353

#20692 - MARATHON OIL COMPANY, DAWN KUPPER 31-15H, NWNE 15-146N-95W, DUNN CO., 372' FNL and 1572' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, CHIMNEY BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2325' Ground, API #33-025-01354

Well files released from confidential status

#18892 – ANSCHUTZ EXPL., EVELYN KARY 1-15-22H-144-97, NWNE 15-144N-97W, DUNN CO. 340 bopd, 570 bwpd - Bakken

#19246 – ZENERGY OPERATING DAKOTA-3 WELLS 32-29H, SWSE 32-150N-93W, DUNN CO. 19,131’ - Bakken

#19470 – TRACKER RESOURCE, VICTOR POHRIBNAK 16-1H, SESW 9-147N-96W, DUNN CO. 1274 bopd, 298 bwpd - Bakken

#20348 – ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION, KARSKY 1-20, NENW 20-141N-97W, DUNN CO. Permit cancelled

Producing wells completed

#19072 - XTO Energy, Big Gulch Federal 41X-16, NENE 16-148N-97W, Dunn Co. 152 bopd, 113 bwpd - Bakken

Mountrail County Update -- 3/28 - 4/1

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

New starts

EOG Mountrail #19854 3/28
HESS Mountrail #19621 3/29
HESS Mountrail #19352 3/29
EOG Mountrail #18181 3/31
HESS Mountrail #20649 4/1
HESS Mountrail #20651 4/1

Drilling permits

#20667 - SINCLAIR OIL AND GAS COMPANY, MARTENS 2-5H, LOT2 5-154N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 230' FNL and 1980' FEL, DEV., SANISH, 'Tight Hole', 2344' Ground, API #33-061-01722

#20669 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-PERSON-156-94- 1102H-2, SESW 11-156N-94W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 253' FSL and 2550' FWL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2222' Ground, API #33-061-01723

#20670 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-PERSON-156-94 1102H-3, SESW 11-156N-94W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 252' FSL and 1830' FWL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2245' Ground, API #33-061-01724

#20671 - SINCLAIR OIL AND GAS COMPANY, MARTENS 2-6H, LOT7 6-154N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 252' FSL and 766' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SANISH, 'Tight Hole', 2396' Ground, API #33-061-01725

#20677 - WHITING OIL AND GAS CORPORATION, BREHM 12-7TFH, LOT2 7-152N-92W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 1750' FNL and 400' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, SANISH, 20155', 9-5/8 " - 1900', 1974' Ground, API #33-061-01726, (Approved : 3/30/2011)

#20682 - HUNT OIL COMPANY, KING 2-35-4H 2, NENE 35-157N-90W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 485' FNL and 720' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ROSS, 'Tight Hole', 2224' Ground, API #33-061-01727

#20690 - HESS CORPORATION, EN-WANDER-156-94- 0904H-1, SWSW 9-156N-94W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 540' FSL and 390' FWL, DEV., BIG BUTTE, 'Tight Hole', 2384' Ground, API #33-061-01728

#20691 - EOG RESOURCES, INC., FERTILE 49-3024H, SWSE 30-151N-90W, MOUNTRAIL CO., 425' FSL and 2441' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, PARSHALL, 20418', 9-5/8 " - 2036', 2166' Ground, API #33-061-01729, (Approved: 4/1/20

Well files released from confidential status

#18368 – SLAWSON EXPLORATION, PAYARA 2-21H, NENE 21-152N-991W, MOUNTRAIL CO. 323 bopd, 347 bwpd - Bakken

#19136 – HESS CORP., RS-NELSON 1-156-90- 2120H-1, NESE 21-156N-90W, MOUNTRAIL CO. 432 bopd, 100 bwpd - Bakken

McKenzie County Update -- 3/28 - 4/1

Source: North Dakota Industrial Commission

New starts

DENBURY McKenzie #19892 3/30

Drilling permits

#20661 - SM ENERGY COMPANY, HOEHN 2-13H, NWNE 13-152N-102W, MCKENZIE CO., 230' FNL and 1610' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, ELK, 'Tight Hole', 2242' Ground, API #33-053-03552

#20666 - ZENERGY, INC, SNOWSHOE 30-31H, NWNE 30-151N-102W, MCKENZIE CO., 350' FNL and 2205' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, GLASS BLUFF, 'Tight Hole', 2083' Ground, API #33-053-03553

#20674 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., ROLLEFSTAD 3-3H, NENW 3-152N-94W, MCKENZIE CO., 300' FNL and 2090' FWL, DEVELOPMENT, ANTELOPE, 'Tight Hole', 2048' Ground, API #33-053-03554

#20676 - CONTINENTAL RESOURCES, INC., NORFOLK 1-1H, LOT2 1-151N-99W, MCKENZIE CO., 275' FNL and 1980' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, NORTH TOBACCO GARDEN, 'Tight Hole', 2167' Ground, API #33-053-03555

#20680 - ZENERGY, INC, FORLAND 28-33H, NWNE 28-151N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 560' FNL and 1520' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2010' Ground, API #33-053-03556

#20683 - DENBURY ONSHORE, LLC, SATTER 31-1SWH, LOT2 1-150N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 300' FNL and 1500' FEL, DEV., SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2097' Ground, API #33-053-03555

#20687 - BURLINGTON RESOURCES OIL & GAS COMPANY LP, CAPITOL 34-7TFH, SWSE 7-152N-96W, MCKENZIE CO., 220' FSL and 2221' FEL, DEVELOPMENT, WESTBERG, 'Tight Hole', 2437' Ground, API #33-053-03558

#20689 - ZENERGY, INC, PATSI 5-8H, LOT2 5-151N-98W, MCKENZIE CO., 190' FNL and 1630' FEL,DEVELOPMENT, SIVERSTON, 'Tight Hole', 2169' Ground, API #33-053-03559

Well files released from confidential status

#16181 – NOVUS ENERGY COMPANY, WILLIAM 1, SWNE 2-151N-100W, MCKENZIE CO. Permit expired

#18087 – ZENERGY, INC., JEFFERSON 4-14H, NWNW 14-151N-104W, MCKENZIE CO. Permit expired

#18579 – SM ENERGY COMPANY, JORGENSON 1-30H, NENE 30-149N-95W, MCKENZIE CO. 20,850’ - Bakken

#19128 – XTO ENERGY, INC., MONDAK FEDERAL 24X-12, SESW 12-148N-105W, MCKENZIE CO. 937 bopd, 1806 bwpd - Bakken

#19260 – MARATHON OIL COMPANY, WATSON USA 14-32H, SWSW 32-147N-98W, MCKENZIE CO. 225 bopd, 313 bwpd - Bakken

#19497 – NEWFIELD PRODUCTION, WILSON 150-99-29-32-1H, SESW 20-150N-99W, MCKENZIE CO. No data - Bakken

#19473 – MARATHON OIL, CROW FLIES HIGH USA 31-4H, NWNE 4-151N-94W, MCKENZIE CO.20,503’ – Sanish

Producing wells completed

#19001 - Zenergy Inc., Stepanek 8-5H, SWSE 8-152N-102W, McKenzie Co. 618 bopd, 748 bwpd – Bakken