PCEC’s Technical Approach
Everything we do is built on a simple premise: apply the best minds, in a multidisciplinary environment, using the best tools, and the best engineering practices available—every day, at every well.
Our teams utilize state-of-the-art software, advanced computer modeling, and proven engineering strategies honed over 30+ years to optimize performance across the full production lifecycle.
From initial reservoir analysis to extraction, performance optimization, and asset transition – ensuring that every barrel is produced as efficiently, safely, and responsibly as possible. We recognize the importance of having close working relationship with all stakeholders including the regulators.
Operating in complex environments
PCEC has spent decades operating under some of the most demanding regulatory and environmental controls in the world, including California.
Our success flows from our approach: precise, collaborative, and at ease working alongside regulators, community stakeholders, and government agencies to find paths forward that serve multiple interests simultaneously.
Reservoir
characterization
We build detailed static models of every reservoir we operate.
Our approach integrates well log data, seismic cubes, and geological analysis into Petrel geomodels, the industry standard for subsurface characterization.
Production
simulation
Before we produce, we simulate. PCEC uses Eclipse reservoir simulation software and state-of-the-art thermal simulation models to predict production behavior, optimize recovery, and stress-test our assumptions before they become operational decisions.
Geo-mechanical modeling informs how we manage pressure, subsidence, and long-term field integrity.
Extraction
technology
We operate across a range of extraction environments and know how to match technologies to formations.
Our teams are experienced in conventional onshore production, heavy oil recovery through steam injection and diluent, and the full spectrum of artificial lift: electrical submersible pumps, progressive cavity pumps, and sucker rod pumps.
Production
management
Once producing, we manage with data. PCEC uses oil field manager software for production data collection, analysis, and visualization across our asset base.
We track what's happening in real time and adjust accordingly.
Research and innovation
In collaboration with Heriot-Watt University, we are actively exploring the feasibility of capturing exhaust gas by water and reinjecting carbonated water into the reservoir, a potentially significant advance in emissions management for mature field operations.
In Santa Barbara County, we are field-testing an algae bioreactor, developed in partnership with Santa Maria Energy LLC, that captures COâ‚‚ from steam generation as an alternative to flaring.