Sinopec Unearths Vast Natural Gas Reserves in Southwest China

In a significant breakthrough, Sinopec, China's second-largest energy company, has made a momentous discovery of a super-large natural gas deposit in the Sichuan basin, situated in the southwestern region of the country. The Hexingchang gas field, positioned between Deyang city and Mianyang city, has been verified by China's regulatory authority for upstream activities, the Ministry of Natural Resources, to possess a staggering 133 billion cubic meters of proven gas reserves.

The unique geological characteristics of the Hexingchang gas field present a formidable challenge for development. Nestled in an area characterized by deep and tight sandstone gas reservoirs featuring elevated pressure and ultra-low porosity, its exploration demands sophisticated techniques and innovative solutions. Undeterred by these complexities, Sinopec has undertaken the drilling of 21 wells within the field. Remarkably, each well has yielded an average daily gas production of 155,000 cubic meters, contributing to an impressive annual natural gas production capacity of 1.8 billion cubic meters.

Sinopec's commitment to exploration and development is prominently showcased by its extensive presence in the Sichuan Basin, a region rich in energy resources. The company holds proven natural gas reserves approaching an astonishing 3 trillion cubic meters in this strategic basin. The cumulative natural gas production from this region has already surpassed a substantial milestone, exceeding 200 billion cubic meters.

The success of the Hexingchang gas field serves as a testament to Sinopec's prowess in uncovering and tapping into substantial energy resources. It further underscores the company's unwavering dedication to meeting the escalating demand for natural gas in China, aligning with the nation's broader energy goals.

The significance of Sinopec's achievement is underscored by the sheer scale of the proven gas reserves at the Hexingchang gas field. This discovery not only solidifies Sinopec's position as a key player in China's energy landscape but also contributes substantially to the nation's energy security by adding a substantial reserve to its natural gas portfolio.

As China continues to emphasize cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the discovery of such a colossal natural gas deposit aligns with the country's broader energy transition goals. Natural gas, known for its cleaner combustion compared to other fossil fuels, plays a pivotal role in China's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance environmental sustainability.

Sinopec's revelation of the super-large natural gas deposit in the Hexingchang gas field stands as a milestone in China's energy landscape. The challenges posed by the unique geological characteristics of the field are met with Sinopec's technical acumen and determination. This discovery not only bolsters China's natural gas reserves but also reaffirms Sinopec's pivotal role in meeting the nation's growing demand for cleaner energy sources. As the company continues its exploration and development endeavors, the Hexingchang gas field remains a beacon of success in China's pursuit of energy security and sustainability.