Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>This paper describes well remote operations development and implementation in La Calera unconventional gas and condensate field. Wells restart and Shut-In from remote operation center were successfully implemented, enabling improved PAD management and reducing production losses after plant shutdowns. Furthermore, displacing well management to the remote operation center redu ced field personnel exposure and enabled a more focused operator tasks allocation.</jats:p> <jats:p>To safely enable remote well restart from the remote operation center without on-site personnel, a detailed risk analysis and programming of opening conditions were required. This process includes the remote operation scope definition and conducting a thorough review of the functional logic in each PAD's safety controller. In summary, the implemented logic allows remote operation only in cases of production facility shutdown or manual shut-in from the remote operation center, whereas it prohibits well opening when the shutdown is originated at the PAD due to high pressure, flame detection, or explosive mixture detection.</jats:p> <jats:p>Remote operation has been implemented across most producing PADs, with minimal hardware modifications and clear operational benefits, including faster production recovery, reduced mileage, and improved task prioritization. Although quantitative performance metrics are still being collected, early results demonstrate increased operational efficiency and safety.</jats:p> <jats:p>This work provides a practical framework for integrating digital control and remote supervision into shale-gas developments, highlighting the technical feasibility and value of centralized well operations.</jats:p>