Temporary field storage of gas to optimize field development

摘要

Methods for managing the production of fluids from a low-permeability subsurface formation in a field may include producing fluids from a coalbed formation. The method involves producing formation fluids from a first zone in the subsurface formation for a period of time so as to at least partially dewater the first zone. The formation fluids are separated into a liquid stream that primarily comprises water, and a gas stream that primarily comprises methane gas. The water is sent for disposal, such as into a subsurface formation, while the gas is temporarily stored or flared. A gas processing facility is constructed for the field. Construction of the gas processing facility is spread out or delayed until the field is ready to produce enough gas to allow the gas processing facility to operate at a substantially greater capacity than would be provided at the beginning of field development.