ACADEMICIAN TROFIMUK’S METHODOLOGY IN OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION AND ITS RELEVANCE TODAY

We examine the establishment of the methodology for oil and gas exploration as reflected in the seminal works of I.M. Gubkin, A.A. Trofimuk, A.A. Bakirov, S.P. Maksimov, A.E. Kontorovich, and other prominent Russian scientists. It is argued that Trofimuk made the most significant contribution to this methodology. The theoretical foundation (the organic theory of the origin of petroleum) and the core principles – namely, the genetic approach, the regular distribution of deposits, regionality, the phasing of exploration activities, and the integration of diverse research methods were adopted by the Ministry of Geology of the USSR in formulating the mandatory methodological document, “Regulations on the Stages and Phases of Geological Exploration for Oil and Gas.” This document was approved in 1983 not only by the USSR Ministry of Geology but also by the Ministries of the Oil and Gas Industries. The methodology of the Soviet era proved highly effective, as evidenced by the creation of an exceptionally robust hydrocarbon mineral resource base. Regrettably, no comparable methodological framework currently exists that formally defines the state’s responsibilities and authority across the various stages and phases of exploration. A critical discontinuity is identified between regional studies conducted on unallocated subsoil funds and the exploration stage carried out on licensed blocks, which constitutes the primary reason for the current depleted state of the exploration inventory. A scheme is proposed whereby the state would assume responsibility for the first stage of exploration, specifically the preparation of targets for exploratory drilling. Recommendations are made for reinstating a state-sponsored program for research, development, and methodological studies in the oil and gas sector, which would undoubtedly enhance the overall efficiency of the exploration process.