Standalone Bess (battery Energy Storage System)

A closed vessel used to process materials in discrete, timed cycles rather than continuously. Subcontractors may be called to inspect, clean, or maintain these units during scheduled shutdowns. Work is typically project-based, tied to turnaround or maintenance contracts.

A standardised unit of energy measurement that converts different types of oil and gas production into equivalent barrels of crude oil, used by operators to report total production volumes when determining project scope and service requirements for subcontractors.

A document created in the field that records work performed, equipment used, materials consumed, and time spent. Field tickets are the basis for invoicing and must typically be approved by the customer before payment.

The number of drilling rigs actively operating in a region. Published weekly by Baker Hughes, the rig count is a leading indicator of activity levels in the oil and gas industry.

A heavy oil extraction method using paired horizontal wells where steam is injected into the upper well to heat bitumen, allowing it to drain by gravity to the lower production well. Creates specialized maintenance and service opportunities for subcontractors in steam generation equipment, wellhead systems, and pipeline infrastructure at oil sands operations.

A formal business arrangement where two or more companies partner to pursue a specific project or contract, which can affect subcontractors by changing who issues purchase orders, approves invoices, or holds liability on site. Field service companies should confirm early which JV partner is the contracting entity to avoid payment delays or scope disputes.

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.