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Reservoir Technologies of the 21^st Century (2^nd Edition)

Abstract: To tackle the current and future challenges of reservoir technologies, the SPE Reservoir Advisory Committee (RAC) began an initiative in May 2019 to develop a comprehensive strategic plan to review, revise, and update the reservoir technical discipline. 56 subject-matter experts—organized into study groups focused on the three main topics of reservoir characterization, reservoir engineering and reservoir management. The resulting green paper* is not envisioned as an authoritative document but rather a candid, as well as provocative, account of the state of the reservoir discipline. As a general disclaimer, this work is not intended to be an SPE position statement, nor is it an SPE board report. Rather, it is an attempt by a group of subject matter experts to inspire discussion regarding the reservoir technologies that will be required to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

In 2025, an update to the original document (2nd Edition) was produced by 44 subject-matter experts. The originally proposed structure was maintained, not modified, to ensure compatibility with the first edition. The new edition added materials dedicated to aspects related to the energy transition, as well as updates to the existing sections.

*For the purpose of this work, the term “green paper” describes a tentative report/consultation document with technical proposals prepared for discussion