Cenovus Energy Inc.
METHODS FOR RECOVERING SOLVENT AND PRODUCING HYDROCARBONS FROM SUBTERANEAN RESERVOIRS

Abstract:

Disclosed are methods of producing hydrocarbons and recovering solvent from a subterranean reservoir that is penetrated by an injection well and a production well. The methods comprise orchestrating a production phase that involves injecting solvent (and optionally steam) to mobilize viscous hydrocarbons. The methods also comprise a solvent-recovery phase that involves non-condensable gas injection. The production phase and the solvent-recovery phase are each defined by an injection profile. The solvent-recovery-phase injection profile is selected: (i) based on the production-phase injection profile, and (ii) to ensure the pressure/temperature conditions in proximity to the production well favour gas-phase solvent recovery.