Number: RL31022
Title: Arctic Petroleum: Technology Development
Authors: Bernard Gelb, M. Lynne Corn, and Terry R. Twyman, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: To put the technology developments - the focus of this report - in perspective, the report's initial section summarizes some of the concerns expressed by opponents of development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, as well as some of the benefits of ANWR development offered by proponents. Exploration and drilling technologies are discussed next, as exploration is the first step toward commercial production of hydrocarbons. After successful drilling of an exploration well or wells, there are a variety of technological options available to the industry for starting the development of the discovery. Production technologies that make it possible to effectively recover the hydrocarbons will complete the technology discussion. The report also compares the procedures and potential environmental effects described in the 1987 FLEIS report with today's available procedures and their possible impacts.
Pages: 27
Date: January 23, 2006