For many investors, the excitement builds once the well is drilled – but that is only the beginning. Understanding what happens next can give you a clearer view of the full timeline and how your oil and gas investment continues to progress after drilling ends.
The Post-Drilling Phases in Oil and Gas Projects
Once drilling is complete, the project moves into several key phases that are essential to reaching production and generating revenue. Each stage plays a critical role in getting the well online.
- Well Completion
After drilling, the well must be completed to prepare it for production. This includes installing casing and cementing, setting up the production tubing, and performing tests to evaluate the well’s flow potential. Casing helps keep the wellbore stable and blocks fluids from moving between underground layers. Small holes are then made in the casing near the reservoir so that oil or gas can flow into the well. - Fracturing or Stimulation
In many formations, the reservoir needs to be stimulated through hydraulic fracturing or similar methods. This method uses high-pressure fluids to create fractures or openings in the rock, making it easier for oil and gas to move into the well. - Flowback and Testing
After stimulation, the well undergoes flowback. Engineers monitor pressure, fluid composition, and flow rates to assess production potential and optimize well performance. This testing provides data essential for production planning. - Production Facilities Setup
Equipment is then installed to separate, measure, and transport oil and gas. This includes tanks, separators, meters, and pipelines. These facilities ensure the hydrocarbons are processed, stored, and moved efficiently and safely. - First Production
Once the setup is complete, the well begins active production. Output is monitored to keep the reservoir healthy and running efficiently. This is when revenue generation begins and distributions to working interest owners start.
Project Timelines Vary
Timelines depend on factors like the region, formation, operator, and whether infrastructure is already in place. In other cases, it may take longer – especially if the site is complex or involves multiple wells.
Contact DW Energy
Want to learn more about oil & gas investing? Our expert team can provide you with more information or schedule a consultation to talk about diversifying your investment portfolio.
DW Energy’s Involvement After Drilling
At DW Energy Group, our role does not end when drilling is done. We stay closely involved through every stage of the post-drilling process. This includes working with the operator to monitor performance, track timelines, and manage communication with investors.
We provide monthly updates and production data so you can see how your investment is progressing. We also make sure partners receive required documentation, including revenue statements and tax forms.
We partner with reliable operators who have a proven record of safely and efficiently bringing wells into production. We stay involved throughout the process to keep projects on track and our investors informed.
What Investors Can Expect
After drilling, investors should be prepared for a short waiting period as the well is completed and brought online. This phase is critical – it determines the long-term performance of the well and influences return potential.
Once production begins, revenue is calculated and distributed based on your working interest percentage. These returns are affected by production volume, commodity prices, and operational costs.
Throughout this process, DW Energy continues to support you with clear communication and access to detailed reports.
From Drilling to Distribution: DW Energy Is With You at Every Step
Direct participation means owning a piece of the process – and that includes everything after the well is drilled. With DW Energy Group, you stay connected to each stage of your oil and gas investment, with the support of a team that is committed to transparency, reliability, and long-term value.
To learn more about how we support qualified investors through every stage of an oil and gas project, visit our Partner Experience page.
Contact dw energy
Sources:
“A Comprehensive Guide to Well Completion,” Esmitech, https://www.esimtech.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-well-completion.html
“Fracking 101,” NRDC, https://www.nrdc.org/stories/fracking-101
“The Defining Series: Well Testing Fundamentals,” SLB, https://www.slb.com/resource-library/oilfield-review/defining-series/defining-well-testing
“Oil and Gas Production Timelines,” Investopedia, https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/061115/how-long-does-it-take-oil-and-gas-producer-go-drilling-production.asp