Innovation, Technology Boost Mexico’s Oil Production

Q: Geolis has remained competitive in Mexico’s oil and gas sector for over a decade. What key strategies have allowed you to differentiate yourself in the market?

A: Our strategy has always centered on investing in Mexican talent. We believe in our people and in the new generation of professionals entering the workforce. We don’t simply seek qualified geologists and engineers; we actively recruit individuals who demonstrate a strong problem-solving mindset, the resilience to navigate complex challenges, and the humility to keep learning in an ever-evolving industry.

Generating tangible value has been central to our responsible growth, complemented by our ability to continuously challenge conventional approaches. We challenge conventional solutions, always asking how we can do things differently and better. Another defining strategy has been our focus on the most complex challenges: fields, assets, and wells where others have given up. We apply customized solutions and advanced technology, always prioritizing production optimization. If we are not helping our clients produce more efficiently, we are not fulfilling our mission.

Q: You have collaborated with universities, leading to the development of two patents. How have these innovations strengthened your operations, and what impact do you foresee for the broader industry?

A: Knowledge must be documented, shared, and applied. Our partnerships with universities and the public sector have been essential to our growth, not just for patents but for fostering long-term collaboration where everyone benefits. We have worked closely with institutions like UNAM and IPN, creating research programs, internships, and hands-on training.

There is often a gap between academic knowledge and field operations, particularly between universities in central Mexico and those in oil-producing regions. Many young engineers enter the industry with strong theoretical backgrounds but no field experience. We aim to bridge that gap by offering practical training programs and exposing students to real-world challenges.

Our patents reflect this same culture of continuous improvement. Some innovations, like CoreWell, are already in use, enhancing field operations through proprietary software solutions. Now, we are expanding our focus to patented tools and equipment tailored to Mexico’s specific operating conditions.

Q: CoreWell is an in-house software solution developed by Geolis. What specific operational challenges does it address, and how does it improve efficiency in artificial lift systems?

A: CoreWell is not just for the Mexican market; it addresses industry-wide challenges. Its greatest value lies in integrating operational data into a single platform, presenting it through clear, actionable indicators. This improves real-time decision-making, aligns teams, and enhances operational monitoring. Originally, our approach relied on mechanistic models to support decision-making processes; however, we are now actively transitioning toward artificial intelligence-based systems. Integrating AI into CoreWell allows for even more agile, precise, and data-driven decisions, significantly boosting operational performance and predictive capabilities

Beyond artificial lift systems, CoreWell serves as a comprehensive field management tool, consolidating both real-time and daily generated data. Each asset has unique characteristics, requiring flexibility in data integration, both digital and analog. This adaptability enables operators to anticipate field conditions and optimize performance proactively.

Real-time monitoring is critical for operational efficiency, providing high-quality information that enables timely action. We have seen its impact firsthand, particularly in the Burgos Basin, where it manages data from over 3,000 wells, preventing failures, optimizing production, and extending asset life through predictive analytics.

Despite its benefits, widespread adoption of technologies like CoreWell remains a challenge due to contractual limitations. However, we are optimistic. Mexico’s new administration is actively promoting mixed business models, where private companies collaborate closely with PEMEX, significantly accelerating the introduction and widespread adoption of advanced technologies.

At Geolis, we are committed to driving technological adoption and making digital solutions an industry standard. Improving Mexico’s production capacity requires embracing innovation, and the future will not wait, failing to adopt today’s technology means sacrificing tomorrow’s efficiency and productivity. Information only has real value when it enables fast, smart, and results-driven decisions.

Q: How do Geolis' artificial lift solutions help extend the productive life of mature assets?

A: Mature fields are the backbone of oil production in Mexico and globally. Maximizing their productive lifespan is not just a technical challenge but a strategic priority. At Geolis, we understand that optimizing production is not only about keeping a well operational but ensuring it remains financially viable and adaptable to evolving conditions.

We currently operate in eight of PEMEX’s production assets, all involving mature fields, where we help produce approximately 55Mb/d through specialized solutions. Our focus is on complex wells, meaning those with challenging geometries, high-viscosity fluids, solids, or low pressure, where conventional methods often fail.

Our artificial lift technologies, such as Jet pumps, ESP, Gas Lift, and PCP systems, have proven critical in recovering production from wells that would otherwise be non-viable. We also deal with early production facilities, including backpressure reduction plants, to enhance efficiency. While these methods are not yet widespread in Mexico, they are essential for optimizing mature fields.

Additionally, we are developing hybrid technologies with automated and electric systems that reduce energy consumption and improve operational efficiency. The key to success lies in applying engineering with expertise, innovation, and adaptability. Sustainable production requires a long-term vision, technical precision, and a commitment to efficiency, ensuring mature fields remain productive and profitable.

Q: The oil and gas sector faces increasing scrutiny regarding environmental and social responsibility. How does Geolis balance operational efficiency with its commitment to sustainability?

A: Operational efficiency and sustainability are not opposing forces; they are two sides of the same commitment. Responsible operations require a conscious approach to environmental impact. We recognize the scrutiny our industry faces, and at Geolis, we actively work to minimize the carbon footprint of every barrel we produce.

Our equipment primarily operates on electric systems or natural gas-powered engines. This not only reduces emissions compared to diesel or gasoline but also allows us to utilize available gas from the field, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. Transforming what could be waste into energy is a key part of our approach to cleaner operations.

Additionally, we have integrated solar panels across all operations, preventing the annual emission of 204t of CO2, and implemented battery storage systems to power auxiliary equipment with clean energy. Instead of relying on diesel or gasoline generators, we have made these solutions a standard practice, enhancing energy autonomy and adaptability while reinforcing our commitment to sustainability.

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we are taking this commitment further with the launch of Geolis Energía. This new venture leverages our expertise in energy and electrical management to expand clean energy solutions beyond the oil sector, including solar generation, battery storage, and hybrid systems.

The energy transition is progressing, but active participation is essential. By improving oil extraction efficiency and reducing its environmental impact, we contribute to a more sustainable future. Lowering the carbon footprint per barrel is not an aspirational goal but a daily responsibility. Sustainability is not just a principle; it is the path we have chosen to drive growth while leaving a lasting, positive impact.

Geolis has been a proud signatory of the UN Global Compact since 2021, integrating sustainability as a core business philosophy rather than an isolated initiative. Our commitment aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and international standards like ISO 26000, ensuring a responsible and ethical approach to our operations.

Between 2023 and 2024, we implemented 71 environmental and social initiatives, contributing over 2,400 volunteer hours and generating a positive impact on 3,477 individuals. We delivered 4,300 hours of training to strengthen workforce skills and education development, reforested more than 3ha, and planted 2,400 native trees across priority regions. For Geolis, sustainability is not ancillary—it is a strategic pillar that drives operational resilience, environmental stewardship, and long-term value creation.

Geolis is a Mexican company that offers comprehensive services focused on the optimization of oil assets through Artificial Production Systems.