Blue Spark Energy: Revolutionizing Wellbore Remediation

P=E/t Power equals energy over time. Since 2011, Blue Spark Energy has been using this very equation as the basis for its BLUESPARK^® technology, changing the game of wellbore remediation.

CIO Bulletin had the opportunity to talk to Marci Hamilton, CEO of Blue Spark Energy, about the growth and impact of the company.

Q.What is the story of Blue Spark Energy?

Blue Spark Energy originated when a mining magnate sought a groundbreaking technology investment and found a small research facility in France exploring innovative power concepts. Recognizing the potential to enhance extraction methods in the energy sector, they revisited previous work in the field. Despite the ahead-of-its-time nature of using high-powered events, the industry initially grappled with comprehending the simplicity of this solution. Eventually, the idea was presented to Blue Spark Energy’s founder.

Over the course of one conversation, the technology’s many benefits became clear. If easily packaged and cost-effective, it had the potential to eliminate the need for chemicals, explosives, manpower, and heavy equipment during wellbore interventions.

Blue Spark Energy was born, and its first investors resonated with the environmental benefits. Even in 2011, there was growing pressure and incentive to create a more sustainable industry. This led to Blue Spark Energy developing the BLUESPARK^® technology, a high-powered tool that takes less energy than a hair dryer or coffee pot to complete an intervention.

To date, Blue Spark Energy has completed over 1,000 descents with companies worldwide, including Total, BP, and Shell. The technology has limitless possibilities, is simple, efficient, safe, and thrives in remote, hard-to-reach locations.

An innovative company at heart, Blue Spark Energy is building towards a new future for the energy industry. We have been working for the past twelve years to pave the way to a greener, safer, and more efficient industry, and we are proud to play a part in making that happen.

Q.What are some of the ways Blue Spark Energy has contributed to innovation within the energy industry?

BLUESPARK^® technology is unlike any other technology in the energy industry. The technology can be applied to not only hydrocarbon wells but also geothermal and water wells.

Conventional processes (not technologies), whether chemical or mechanical, are very hard on the wells and have limitations. BLUESPARK^® technology adds a third method to remove brittle scale as well as most blockages and fines from the wellbore.

BLUESPARK^® technology uses high-power pressure waves that exceed the mechanical strength of the brittle scale material, breaking it away from the casing. The high-pressure wave is indiscriminately dependent on the scale type, as the method is based on the magnitude of the high-pressure wave exceeding the material properties of the brittle scale. The removed scale is broken into smaller pieces that can either remain in the well or be circulated out.

Q.What are the benefits clients receive from choosing to work with Blue Spark Energy?

When clients choose to work with Blue Spark Energy, they can be confident they are receiving a sustainable, cost-effective, safe, efficient, and expertly innovative service provided by Blue Spark’s expertly trained team.

• BLUESPARK^® technology is safe to transport and operate
• The technology has a small footprint; only one truck and one field supervisor are required
• Any risks are mitigated through engineered safety devices
• There are no dangerous goods, radiation, chemicals, or explosives required
• BLUESPARK^® technology cannot damage the completion components
• A proprietary training platform ensures technical competence for all BLUESPARK^® certified workers

Q.What makes the BLUESPARK^® technology unique?

What makes BLUESPARK^® technology unique is that it uses the principle of high-pulsed power, taking a very small amount of energy and creating a high-powered event downhole. BLUESPARK^® utilizes the existing wellbore fluid, and by using basic principles of physics combined with advanced technology, it transforms electricity into a shockwave and a high-power pressure wave. 

BLUESPARK^® technology is designed for the complex challenge of removing scale that accumulates and causes flow impediments in downhole wells without causing any damage to the casing that could compromise well integrity. This chemical-free process simplifies the overall operation, making it a safe and efficient solution for wellbore scale issues. As the process only requires electricity, it can be a sustainable, zero-emission solution in scenarios where renewable electricity is available.

Q.What has been the impact of BLUESPARK^® technology on the energy industry?

Blue Spark Energy's BLUESPARK^® technology has had a significant impact on the energy industry since its inception in 2011. This innovative technology has primarily focused on wellbore remediation, offering a green and sustainable alternative to traditional methods in the industry.

The effect of BLUESPARK^® technology on the energy industry has been notable, with its focus on environmental sustainability, cost efficiency, and proven results. The enthusiastic response from customers, as indicated by an expanding order backlog and continued support, underscores the industry's readiness to embrace this innovative technology.

Q.How vital has it been to build a skilled team at Blue Spark Energy? How does the company promote innovation within its team?

Building a skilled team at Blue Spark Energy has been vital to the company's success. Our team is the cornerstone of our operations, and we recognize that everyone has a key role to play. We place a strong emphasis on the value of each team member's contributions, and we don't believe in the duplication of efforts. This means that we are careful in our hiring process to find individuals with the right skill sets, experience, and expertise to fill the gaps and bring unique talents to the table.

In terms of promoting innovation within our team, Blue Spark Energy fosters a culture of continuous learning and creativity. Our company acknowledges that innovation is driven by the diversity of thought and ideas. We actively seek out the right people who can bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to our projects. This commitment to diversity and seeking out the right talent encourages a rich exchange of ideas and stimulates innovation within the team.

Q.What are Blue Spark Energy’s plans for the future?

Our team continues to grow, and we continue to innovate and adapt our technology to meet the conditions in a wide range of wellbores, including geothermal. As the energy industry is quickly evolving, we understand the need for clean, safe, and reliable technology. Blue Spark Energy remains dedicated to educating and encouraging the energy industry, whether hydrocarbon or geothermal, to embrace change and adopt cutting-edge technologies, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.

 A brief biography of the CEO

Marci Hamilton, the CEO of Blue Spark Energy, has been with the company since its inception in 2011 and has played a pivotal role in building the vision and culture of the organization. She brings over 25 years of experience in corporate support services, operations, and business development, spanning the technology and energy sectors. Marci is passionate about bringing innovative ideas to life through precise planning and execution.

“An innovative company at heart, we are building towards a new future for the energy industry. We have been working for the past twelve years to pave the way to a greener, safer, and more efficient industry, and we’re proud to play a part in making that happen.”

 "We are leaders in high-pulsed power wellbore remediations on an international scale, providing a safe, cost-effective, and efficient solution for companies who share our vision of an innovative and environmentally sustainable energy industry.”