Drilling rigs specifically configured to drill natural gas wells, requiring crews and equipment rated for high-pressure gas formations. For subcontractors, gas rigs often demand specialised certifications and H2S training. Work volumes typically follow natural gas commodity prices and seasonal heating demand.
Gas Rigs
Related Terms
All of the Above (energy Policy)
IndustryA government strategy supporting oil, gas, renewables, and nuclear simultaneously rather than picking one energy source. For subcontractors, it means diversified project opportunities across multiple energy sectors. Crews and companies that can work across sectors gain a competitive advantage in bidding.
Best-Value Scoring
IndustryA bid evaluation method where contractors are ranked on price plus non-price factors like safety record, experience, and equipment. Low bid alone does not win the work. Subcontractors must demonstrate overall capability, not just competitive rates.
Inventory Drawdown
IndustryThe depletion of stored materials, parts, or consumables used during field operations. For subcontractors, rapid drawdown can trigger reorder costs and disrupt project timelines. Tracking drawdown rates helps avoid job-site shortages and unexpected procurement expenses.
Megafab
IndustryA large-scale modular fabrication project where major facility components are built offsite and shipped for final assembly. For subcontractors, megafabs mean long-duration scopes, high crew volumes, and complex multi-trade coordination. Scheduling and mobilisation demands are typically intense.
Reactive Maintenance
IndustryRepair work performed after equipment has already failed or broken down. Subcontractors are often mobilised on short notice, commanding premium rates. Tight timelines increase crew fatigue and safety risks on site.
Owner-Formed Alliance
IndustryA long-term agreement where an owner operator selects a fixed group of contractors to handle ongoing work. Subcontractors inside the alliance get preferred access to scopes but must meet strict performance and pricing benchmarks. Those outside the alliance are often locked out of bidding entirely.
Latest Industry News
U.S. Rig Count Up Four to 599; Gas Rigs Climb to Highest Level Since July 2023
Baker Hughes reports the US oil and gas rig count rose to 599 for a third straight weekly gain, with gas rigs at their highest since 2023 as EIA forecasts rising output into 2026.
16 days agoIndustryUS Rig Count Edges Down to 562 for Week Ending June 12
The US rig count slipped by one to 562 for the week ending June 12, with mixed movement across basins and gas rigs falling to their lowest level since October.
3 months agoIndustryCanadian Rig Counts Climb Above Five-Year Seasonal Highs on Oil and Gas Strength
Canadian active drilling rigs hit 191 as of mid-June 2026, above the prior five-year seasonal high of 170, with oil rigs at 129 and gas rigs at 57, both outpacing every comparable week from 2021 to 2025.
4 months agoIndustryUS rig count rises for first time in month, signaling potential uptick in field services demand
Baker Hughes reports first weekly increase in oil and gas rigs after four weeks of declines, though total count remains 7% below last year.
7 months agoRelated Guides
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Industry GuideHow Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It
Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.
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An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.
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