| Abstract |
Deep geothermal drilling is an expensive undertaking that entails a sequence of activities that are performed sequentially or in tandem with a goal to drill to the target depth within the scheduled time, cost and design. The various activities need to be coordinated in a flawless manner to minimize any disruptions to the drilling activities. This calls for proper overall planning before commencement of drilling and during the drilling operations. Poor planning leads to inefficient drilling as a result of waiting on materials, consumables, equipment and human resource which translates into non-productive time and consequently high costs. Drilling in Paka started in the year 2018, and as of May, 2025, nineteen wells had been drilled. Among them is Paka Well 03B (PW 03B) drilled between September and December, 2022 using one of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC)-owned rigs to a depth of 2,791m in a record time of 78 days against a set target of 3,000m and 80 days. A savings of 38% of the budget set aside for this well was also recorded. Provision of materials and consumables within the required timelines, use of the correct equipment and teamwork were some of the reasons why this well was successfully completed two days earlier, and with minimal non-productive time. This paper analyses the various planning methodologies and tools that were employed while planning and drilling this well. Moreover, recommendations are given on better approaches in planning to achieve better drilling results in future. |