Hassi Messaoud, Algeria – Sonatrach, Algeria’s national oil company, is embarking on a new era of operational efficiency with the launch of its ‘Smart Drilling’ initiative from the Hassi Messaoud oilfield. The initiative aims to bolster national drilling capabilities and optimize operational performance through technological innovation.
Nourredine Daoudi, the CEO of Sonatrach, accompanied by senior executives, recently conducted a field visit to Hassi Messaoud to oversee strategic projects. The visit commenced with a detailed presentation at the logistics base of the National Enterprise of Well Works (Enafor), a Sonatrach subsidiary.
Daoudi inaugurated several new projects undertaken by Enafor, most notably the ‘Enafor Eyes/Real-Time’ center. This state-of-the-art decision support center utilizes a remote monitoring system powered by artificial intelligence and a network of advanced cameras installed on drilling rigs. The center, designed and built entirely by Algerian expertise in collaboration with startups, enables real-time operational monitoring and performance tracking.
During the inauguration, Daoudi emphasized the importance of innovation as a cornerstone of Sonatrach’s strategic objectives. He highlighted the potential of the ‘Enafor Eyes/Real-Time’ center to revolutionize drilling operations, leading to improved safety, efficiency, and decision-making.
The visit also included the commissioning of two new ‘fast-moving’ 750 HP drilling rigs. These are the first of eight rigs with varying capacities scheduled for deployment as part of a medium-term plan. These acquisitions represent a significant leap for Enafor, enabling it to diversify and enhance its service offerings.
Furthermore, the 1500 HP Drilling Rig for Petroleum Works 234, equipped with a variable frequency drive control system, was also put into operation. This marked the completion of a program to revamp five drilling rigs initially acquired as used equipment. According to Abdelghafour Ghallab, CEO of Enafor, this program has completely revitalized the subsidiary’s services, positioning it for future growth and success.
