SMR (Small Modular Reactor)

A project delivery method where one contractor handles both engineering design and construction under a single contract. As a subcontractor, you may be brought in mid-scope with limited drawing sets, requiring flexibility. Scope creep risk is higher since designs are still evolving while field work begins.

Natural gas trapped in low-permeability rock formations that require hydraulic fracturing or horizontal drilling to extract. For subcontractors, tight gas projects typically involve intensive well stimulation work and longer mobilisation cycles. Expect higher equipment demands and specialised crew certifications on these sites.

The maximum electrical output a power facility can produce, measured in gigawatts (GW). For subcontractors, project scale and crew size requirements are often tied directly to a facility's GW rating. Larger GW projects typically mean longer scopes, more mobilisations, and greater equipment demands.

Electrical equipment used to control, protect, and isolate power systems on job sites. Subcontractors working near switchgear must follow strict lockout/tagout procedures. Installation and maintenance work often requires certified electricians and site-specific safety permits.

CBM (Coal Bed Methane) is natural gas extracted from coal seams rather than conventional reservoirs. Field crews typically handle dewatering operations, pipeline tie-ins, and wellsite maintenance on CBM projects. Work is often spread across large numbers of shallow, closely spaced wells requiring frequent travel between sites.

A postponement caused by unfinished grid or pipeline tie-in work that prevents a facility from going live. For subcontractors, it often means demobilisation holds, scope gaps, or standby costs with no clear end date. Document all waiting time carefully to support delay claims or change orders.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How 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.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

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.