Oil and gas in transition

TNO knows the Dutch subsurface like few other organisations. We actively conduct research for the oil and gas industry. From geological characterisation to reservoir optimisation, from materials development to data analysis. In addition, we have a statutory task to manage geological data and advise the government on permit applications. To fulfil these roles properly, our knowledge must always remain up to date.

Mapping the subsurface

Before extracting anything from the ground, you need to know what is there. TNO maps the subsurface through geological characterisation: we analyse rock formations, model reservoirs and assess the potential of new areas. This knowledge forms the foundation for everything that follows.

Over the past decades, we have built up an extensive database with data from the oil and gas industry, including information from more than 6,000 wells, nationwide seismic data (2D and 3D), and records of hundreds of historical permits. This data underpins our subsurface models and the advice we provide on new permit applications.

A strong example of how we bring together data and expertise from multiple partners as an independent organisation is the Paleo 5 project in the North Sea. Together with the British Geological Survey and 15 oil and gas companies, we are investigating the potential of deep geological layers across five countries.

The volume of data we manage continues to grow. Operators leaving the Netherlands are required to transfer their data to us, often in an unstructured form, with tens of thousands of data points, sometimes still on paper. We use AI and machine learning to preserve, structure and unlock this data. This allows us, for example, to identify remaining reserves more quickly.

Safe and efficient production

Drilling a well is only the start. What follows are years of production under high pressure and temperature, using materials that must not fail. TNO works across the entire chain – from drilling technology and well integrity to reservoir and production optimisation.

We develop software and simulation models that predict how much a field can produce, where additional wells will be most effective and how to maximise returns. Using advanced models, we simulate how oil and gas behave under different conditions: which pressures and temperatures allow safe transport, and where risks such as blockages or corrosion may occur.

Together with industry partners, we address the questions operators face every day:

• How do you extend the lifetime of a field and a well?
• How do you prevent instability in complex flow regimes?
• How do you restart production safely after a shutdown?

At the TNO Well Technology Centre, we test these innovations under realistic conditions.

Knowledge that goes beyond borders

TNO connects subsurface expertise with broadly applicable materials science. We develop coatings, and advanced materials that are increasingly resistant to corrosion, extreme temperatures and aggressive fluids. Materials originally developed for extreme subsurface conditions have later proved suitable for firefighting and safety applications. Likewise, a coating designed to prevent corrosion in an oil pipeline can also be applied to a geothermal well or a hydrogen pipeline.

This broader applicability is sometimes visible quite literally. The TNO Well Technology Centre was originally Shell’s research centre for oil and gas drilling. Today, the same facility is also used for sustainable geo‑energy, from geothermal energy to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), together with partners such as EBN.

Internationally, we work with clients in regions including the Middle East. In these projects, we actively involve Dutch companies, start‑ups and knowledge institutes. In doing so, we strengthen the innovation ecosystem while continuing to build our own expertise.

Working together

Would you like to work with TNO on safer, more efficient or more sustainable production? Or would you like to explore how subsurface technologies can contribute to geothermal energy, CO₂ storage or hydrogen?