Remote Sensing Technology Action Plan

Executive Summary

Remote sensing, or the acquisition of information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact, is a highly prospective area for the petroleum industry. Recent advances in technology have reduced costs and improved performance and value. However, the technology is in its early stages and many opportunities for technological leaps still need to be realized. Thus, there is merit for stakeholders to join forces to advance remote sensing innovation in the oil and gas sector.

The objectives of the Remote Sensing Technology Action Plan (RSTAP) are to:

  1. To solicit, screen and select new technologies for remote sensing applicable to petroleum industry challenges.
  2. To provide a neutral framework for stakeholders to exchange technical information as appropriate.
  3. To launch technology demonstration projects.

RSTAP’s scope is composed of the 4 following portfolios:

  1. Environmental impact monitoring: The effectiveness, timeliness and cost of environmental impact monitoring could be vastly improved through satellite, aerial and land-based observation methods to measure and monitor vegetation, ecosystem health, animal populations, land disturbance, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and water quality in regions affected by oil and gas operations.
  2. Arctic resources development: The cost and safety of exploring and finding hydrocarbon resources in Arctic regions are challenged by the harsh climate. Remote sensing technologies offer the possibility of achieving similar outcomes using space and aerial observation methods with less exposure to climatic conditions and less land impact.
  3. Offshore resources development: Exploration for offshore resources is expensive due to the need to use ships and drilling platforms. Extreme weather events may also present safety challenges. Space and aerial sensing technologies may lead to similar outcomes without exposure to maritime conditions.
  4. Pipeline safety and security: Recent well publicized leaks have placed the integrity of the pipeline system under scrutiny. The industry needs to make a step change in its ability to monitor infrastructure integrity and respond to unplanned events. Remote sensing technologies may provide the opportunity for a leap forward in performance.