Artificial Lift Optimization is emerging as a key “Maintenance Plus” strategy, with operators using AI, automation, improved ESP and rod-pump performance, workovers and real-time optimization to reduce downtime, flatten declines and unlock incremental production from existing wells. From Chevron “sweating the assets” to Diamondback’s “pump by exception” model, the goal is increasingly to generate more production and free cash flow from the existing asset base without adding significant capital or drilling activity.

Top operators remain bullish on the Eagle Ford, viewing it as a proven, capital-efficient “safe barrel” where existing infrastructure, improving well economics, and Austin Chalk expansion support continued investment. The strategy increasingly combines selective drilling with Maintenance Plus programs—workovers, artificial lift, chemicals, automation, and production optimization—to slow declines, increase existing-well production, and control LOE.

CN Energy Group has begun oil production from a project in Alberta’s Cold Lake region through its Canadian subsidiaries. The company plans to use the investment as a foundation for a broader North American strategy spanning oil production, investment, transportation, trading and supply chain services.

The Granite Wash reached 20 active rigs, matching the Cana Woodford as western Oklahoma continues to anchor drilling activity in the state. OilGasLeads data shows 143 wells drilled through August 12, 2026, led by Mewbourne Oil Company and heavily concentrated in Roger Mills and Custer counties.

Navigator Borger Express LLC received Texas Interstate Pipeline Registration No. 10796 for 93.14 miles of liquid common-carrier pipeline across Hemphill, Roberts, and Hutchinson counties. The pipeline is part of Navigator’s broader Borger Express system connecting Oklahoma crude supplies with the Texas Panhandle refining market.