Energy-efficient fracturing based on stress-coupled perforation

Hydraulic fracturing (HF) in horizontal wells frequently encounters challenges such as uneven fracture propagation and elevated energy consumption, largely due to stress shadow effects and perforation inefficiencies. This paper presents a novel stress-coupled perforation (SCP) technique that dynamically optimizes perforation cluster parameters by integrating real-time stress interference. The approach employs a semi-numerical model grounded in linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and energy conservation principles, enabling rapid simulation of multi-fracture propagation with high accuracy. Field applications in both homogeneous and heterogeneous shale reservoirs demonstrate that SCP achieves more uniform fracture development while reducing energy consumption by 22%–37% per unit fracture area compared to the conventional extreme limited entry (EXL) method, without sacrificing fracture coverage. The method offers a practical and sustainable pathway to improve HF efficiency, lower operational costs, and reduce environmental impact.