For years, associated gas - a natural by-product of the oil extraction process - was considered operational waste. In Ecuador, as in many countries, the usual practice was to burn it in lighters to avoid its accumulation. However, this method, although functional, generates polluting emissions, wastes a valuable energy resource and is now facing stringent environmental regulations that require it to be phased out by 2030.
At Gente Oil Ecuador, we take on the challenge not only as an obligation, but also as an opportunity to transform that gas into useful energy. In Block 53, we are developing a technical-operational model that converts gas into a source of efficient electricity generation, significantly reducing emissions and adding value to the extractive process.
What about gas?
The associated gas contains a high percentage of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), exceeding on average 72% concentration of active compounds. Prior to its utilization, it must undergo complex processes of degassing, dehydration and suitability for transport or transformation.
Flares, while controlling pressure and eliminating surpluses, are neither sustainable nor sufficient. Even with encapsulation or bypass systems, there are still risks of leakage and emissions.
For this reason, at Gente Oil we are committed to a more ambitious solution: using this gas to generate electricity on site.
The solution: microturbines and dual motors
Since June 2024, we have implemented a microturbine system in Block B that converts gas into electricity for internal use. Initial tests have successfully generated up to 200 kilowatts of power—equivalent to more than 5,000 kWh per day—with consistent efficiency.
In addition, we are modifying existing diesel engines to run on a dual-fuel system (diesel + gas), which reduces the consumption of traditional fossil fuels and improves the system’s thermal efficiency. Currently, five engines in Block B are running on a mixture that already includes 20% gas, and their capacity is gradually increasing.
The goal now is to apply the same model to Block A, moving toward a comprehensive system that utilizes 100% of the recoverable gas.
Results, impact and next steps
This approach has allowed:
- Significantly reduce gas flaring in operational burners.
- Decrease theCO₂ footprint in the atmosphere in a measurable way.
- Generate internal energy that reduces dependence on diesel.
- Early compliance with the standards established by current environmental regulations.
Currently, Gente Oil Ecuador is recognized as one of the operators that has made the most progress in complying with the plan to eliminate lighters by 2030. In fact, our internal commitment is to achieve total burner shutdown by 2028, two years ahead of the established deadline.
Since 2014, the flares at Block 53 have been built in accordance with regulations and operate under strict controls. Today, they are part of a domestic energy transition strategy that seeks to turn an environmental liability into tangible energy value.
A transition from the field
The distance between the operational fronts—for example, 4 kilometers between the Northern Block and Block B—poses logistical and technical challenges. But every step forward is part of a strategy that does not rely on improvisation: it plans, measures, and improves.
The energy transition starts here. Not in speeches, but in every valve closed, every engine converted and every ton of gas transformed into useful energy.
People Oil Ecuador
