OTSG - Once Through Steam Generator
Steam is typically produced for in-situ oil sands operations using a conventional once-through-steam-generator (OTSG). Water pipes inside the OTSG are isolated from the combustion flame and heat is transferred through the pipes, converting the liquid water into steam. In traditional steaming, the combustion exhaust gases are vented to atmosphere.
In 2020, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from in-situ oil sands operations accounted for over 6% of Canada’s total GHG emissionsSource: Environment and Climate Change Canada: Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators: Greenhouse gas emissions, July 2022.
DCSG - Direct Contact Steam Generator
GERI’s Direct Contact Steam Generation (DCSG) co-injector combusts pressurized air and fuel in direct contact with water, resulting in a single product stream of steam (or hot water) mixed with combustion exhaust gases, which is injected downhole rather than being vented to atmosphere.
As per Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) methodology, GERI’s Direct Contact Steam Generation (DCSG) greenhouse gas emissions were evaluated by a third-party evaluator against emissions from conventional Once-Through Steam Generation (OTSG), the closest technology equivalent.
Along with significantly lower greenhouse gas intensity, our technology also provides additional meaningful environmental benefits.
GERI’s DCSG emits up to 67% fewer greenhouse gases than conventional OTSG (sourcing with renewable electricity can take this up to 90%).*
GERI’s DCSG emits up to 50% fewer critical air contaminants (NOX, SOX, PM2.5, VOC, CO) than conventional OTSG.*
GERI’s DCSG uses less than half the fresh water than conventional OTSG.*
Portable units fit within standard well leases and use existing infrastructure and well bores, minimizing land disturbance.
*Per barrel of oil produced. Reservoir & electricity-source dependent. In Cyclic Steam and Flue Gas pilots, up to 70% of CO2 remained underground following an injection and production cycle.
