
Dr Brian Twomey has the honour of serving the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) as a Distinguished Lecturer for the 2024-2025 season, during which he toured the US and the Asia Pacific.
Visit the SPE Distinguished Lecturer website for more information
LIABILITY IS FOREVER: RISK ELEMENTS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DECOMMISSIONING AND WELL P&A
Session Abstract
Decommissioning, well plugging, and abandonment (D&A) are often the unsung heroes of the oil and gas industry. While these activities are crucial to any project’s lifecycle, they are frequently overlooked during the initial planning stages. Despite the significant costs associated with D&A, which can sometimes even exceed those of initial development, they rarely receive the same level of attention as construction and drilling.
This neglect can lead to significant financial and environmental liabilities. Planning for decommissioning from the very beginning of a project is essential to mitigate these risks. Operators can significantly reduce costs and minimise environmental impact by incorporating D&A considerations into the initial project design.
Dr Brian Twomey will share valuable insights and lessons learned from global projects. By understanding the importance of proactive D&A planning, we can ensure a sustainable future for the oil and gas industry.
SPE DISTINGUISHED LECTURER USA TOUR OUTCOME
Dr Twomey had a remarkable experience for the first leg of his SPE Distinguished Lecturer tour in the US in December 2024. Thank you to the SPE sections in Michigan, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Wyoming for hosting a great session during the winter season!
- SPE Michigan Section (Lansing)
- SPE Northern Michigan Section (Traverse City)
- SPE Midwest Gas Storage Section (Pontiac)
- SPE Mid-Continent Section (Tulsa)
- SPE Wyoming Petroleum Section (Casper)
SPE DISTINGUISHED LECTURER APAC TOUR OUTCOME
The second leg of Dr Twomey’s SPE Distinguished Lecturer tour in the Asia Pacific wraps up his season with a bang. Thank you to the SPE sections in Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste for the warm hospitality, and to the attendees for your enthusiasm during the sessions!
- SPE Thailand Section (Bangkok)
- SPE New South Wales/Australian Cap Section (Sydney)
- SPE South Australian Section (Adelaide)
- SPE Queensland Section (Brisbane)
- SPE New Zealand Section (New Plymouth)
- SPE Western Australia Section (Perth)
- SPE Timor-Leste Section (Dili)
UP NEXT: ANOTHER VISIT TO THE ASIA PACIFIC THIS JUNE 2025!
Due to overwhelming requests, Dr Twomey will be back on the road to cover cities in the Asia Pacific in June 2025. Take this opportunity to attend his session at the selected locations below:

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