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Switching from oil to gas production in a depleting field

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  • Støre, Kristian
  • Fleten, Stein-Erik
  • Hagspiel, Verena
  • Nunes, Cláudia

Abstract

We derive an optimal decision rule with regards to making an irreversible switch from oil to gas production. The approach can be used by petroleum field operators to maximize the value creation from a petroleum field with diminishing oil production and remaining gas reserves. Assuming that both the oil and gas prices follow a geometric Brownian motion we derive an analytical solution for the exercise threshold. We also propose an explicit solution for the option value that is new to the literature. Numerical examples are used to demonstrate the threshold and option value for a generic petroleum field. Both the threshold and option value solutions are relevant for application to other real options cases with similar features (e.g. other types of switching options or a perpetual spread option).

Suggested Citation

  • Støre, Kristian & Fleten, Stein-Erik & Hagspiel, Verena & Nunes, Cláudia, 2018. "Switching from oil to gas production in a depleting field," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 271(2), pages 710-719.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:ejores:v:271:y:2018:i:2:p:710-719
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ejor.2018.05.043
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    Cited by:

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    7. Cortazar, Gonzalo & Naranjo, Lorenzo & Sainz, Felipe, 2021. "Optimal decision policy for real options under general Markovian dynamics," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 288(2), pages 634-647.
    8. Sendstad, Lars Hegnes & Chronopoulos, Michail, 2021. "Strategic technology switching under risk aversion and uncertainty," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 126(C).

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