This provision is for an Agreement where there is the expectation that one or more horizontal wells may be drilled within the Contract Area. This section addresses the drilling of Horizontal Wells and that they shall remain the sole property and information of the Operator
Virginia Proprietary Technology Horizontalel— - Restriction on Disclosure refers to a specific type of innovative drilling technique used in the oil and gas industry. This technology is protected under Virginia's proprietary laws and regulations, which prohibit the public disclosure of its technical details and operational processes. Horizontal drilling is a method used to extract oil and gas reserves from underground formations. It involves drilling a well vertically into the ground and then turning it horizontally to access a larger portion of the reservoir. This technique allows for increased production rates and enhanced oil and gas recovery. In Virginia, the proprietary technology associated with horizontal wells includes advanced drilling equipment, specialized drilling fluids, and data collection and analysis systems. These technologies are developed and implemented by industry-leading companies to improve drilling efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize hydrocarbon extraction. The restriction on disclosure, inherent to Virginia's proprietary technology — horizontal well, is in place to safeguard the competitive advantage of companies investing in research and development. It allows them to maintain their intellectual property rights, confidential information, and proprietary techniques, ensuring a level playing field among industry competitors. The specific types of Virginia's proprietary technology horizontalel— - restriction on disclosure may include: 1. Advanced Drilling Equipment: This technology encompasses state-of-the-art tools and machinery used for horizontal drilling operations. It may include rotary steerable systems, whip stocks, and logging while drilling (LED) equipment, among others. 2. Specialized Drilling Fluids: These proprietary fluids are specifically formulated to optimize drilling operations and enhance well bore stability. They can offer superior lubrication, rock cuttings' removal, and control of formation pressures. 3. Data Collection and Analysis Systems: Virginia's proprietary technology includes sophisticated systems for real-time data acquisition, monitoring, and analysis during drilling operations. These systems collect critical information such as pressure, temperature, and formation characteristics to optimize drilling parameters and guide decision-making processes. 4. Patented Techniques: There may be additional proprietary drilling methods and techniques unique to Virginia's horizontal well technology. These could involve specific well bore placement strategies, completion methods, or reservoir stimulation techniques that are protected by patents. Overall, Virginia Proprietary Technology Horizontalel— - Restriction on Disclosure safeguards the cutting-edge innovations and valuable insights developed by companies in the oil and gas industry. By protecting proprietary information, it encourages continued investment in research and development, ultimately driving advancements in drilling techniques and benefiting the energy sector as a whole.