As assets mature and wells reach the end of their productive life, plug and restoration (P&R) becomes a critical phase in responsible asset management. When executed properly, P&R protects the environment, ensures regulatory compliance, and closes out liabilities with confidence. When executed poorly, it creates long-term risk, unnecessary cost, and regulatory exposure.
Within the industry, this phase of work is commonly referred to as Plug and Abandonment (P&A). While technically accurate, NTG Auburn uses the term Plug and Restoration to more fully reflect the scope and intent of the work. Plugging a well is only part of the responsibility — true closure also includes restoring the site to a stable, compliant, and environmentally sound condition. By emphasizing restoration, NTG Auburn reinforces a commitment to environmental stewardship, regulatory integrity, and leaving locations in a condition that reflects responsible asset management from start to finish.
NTG Auburn’s Plug & Restoration Project Management services provide operators with disciplined planning, execution oversight, and cost control — ensuring every well is retired safely, efficiently, and in full alignment with regulatory requirements.
Why Plug & Restoration Requires Disciplined Project Management
Plugging and restoring wells is far more than a mechanical exercise. Each well presents unique challenges related to age, construction history, integrity, and regulatory expectations. Effective P&R programs must balance:
- Regulatory compliance and documentation
- Environmental protection and surface restoration
- Cost certainty and schedule control
- Long-term liability reduction
NTG Auburn approaches P&R as a structured project, not a reactive obligation, ensuring closure activities are completed correctly the first time.
A Structured, Compliance-Driven Approach
NTG Auburn brings clarity and discipline to P&R execution by combining technical expertise with hands-on project management. Every P&R scope is developed with a focus on safety, compliance, and long-term risk reduction — giving operators confidence that liabilities are being permanently addressed.
This approach minimizes surprises in the field and ensures regulators, landowners, and stakeholders are aligned throughout the process.
Core Plug & Restoration Capabilities
Plugging Program Design and Planning
NTG Auburn develops detailed plugging plans based on well history, integrity conditions, and regulatory requirements. Clear scope definition reduces uncertainty, avoids rework, and supports efficient execution.
Regulatory Coordination and Compliance
P&R projects are highly regulated. NTG Auburn manages permitting, reporting, and regulatory coordination to ensure all activities meet state and federal requirements while maintaining clear documentation trails.
Operational Oversight and Cost Control
From contractor coordination to field execution oversight, NTG Auburn ensures P&R operations are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget. Cost tracking and progress monitoring provide full transparency throughout the project.
Surface Restoration and Site Closure
Beyond subsurface plugging, NTG Auburn supports surface restoration efforts to return locations to compliant, stable, and environmentally sound conditions — completing the asset lifecycle responsibly.
Designed for Liability Reduction and Capital Discipline
NTG Auburn’s fractional delivery model allows operators to access experienced P&R leadership without maintaining a dedicated internal team. This model is particularly valuable for:
- Mature fields with large well inventories
- Operators managing regulatory-driven abandonment programs
- Asset teams focused on reducing long-term liabilities
- Private equity-backed portfolios preparing assets for divestment
By prioritizing the highest-risk wells and sequencing work strategically, NTG Auburn helps operators manage abandonment obligations efficiently and predictably.
Turning Obligations Into Controlled Outcomes
Plug and restoration work represents the final chapter in a well’s lifecycle — and it deserves the same level of discipline as drilling, completions, and production. NTG Auburn brings structure, accountability, and technical oversight to every P&R project, helping operators close assets with confidence.
Conclusion: Plug & Restoration With Confidence
NTG Auburn’s Plug & Restoration Project Management services ensure wells are retired safely, compliantly, and cost-effectively. By combining regulatory expertise, operational oversight, and a flexible engagement model, NTG Auburn helps operators reduce liabilities while maintaining environmental and regulatory stewardship.
For operators seeking a trusted partner to manage P&R programs with clarity and control, NTG Auburn delivers responsible closure — done right.
