Can Long-Stroke Rod Lift Revive Aging Permian Wells?

Vendor case studies suggest long-stroke rod lift can cut power use and steady production in mature Permian wells

12 Dec 2025

A quiet reassessment is under way across North America’s shale oilfields as operators adapt to ageing wells and flatter production profiles. In the Permian Basin, that shift is renewing interest in long-stroke rod lift, a technology long overshadowed by electric submersible pumps (ESPs) and conventional beam pumps.

The change reflects a broader move away from maximising peak volumes towards lifting fluids in a steadier, cheaper and more reliable way. As shale wells mature, operators are finding that established lift systems can struggle to perform efficiently under lower flow conditions.

Much of the recent momentum behind long-stroke rod lift comes from vendor case studies, including examples published by SSi Artificial Lift. In those reports, long-stroke systems replaced beam pumps and, in some cases, ESPs in late-life wells. The vendor data points to more stable oil production, fewer workovers and significantly lower power demand. One cited case shows electricity use falling by more than 50 per cent compared with ESPs operating in similar wells.

For producers managing mature assets, the attraction is clear. ESPs are often less reliable as volumes decline, while beam pumps can create uneven fluid movement. Supporters of long-stroke designs argue that longer strokes move fluids more smoothly, reducing mechanical wear and lowering energy use per barrel produced.

However, the industry remains cautious. Most available evidence comes from manufacturer-led studies rather than large, independent trials. Engineers speaking at Permian-focused artificial lift forums and Society of Petroleum Engineers conferences stress that long-stroke rod lift is not suitable for every well. Factors such as well geometry, fluid characteristics, remaining reserves and surface constraints all play a role in system performance.

The renewed interest highlights a wider shift in thinking around artificial lift. While large service companies continue to promote digital monitoring and automation, operators are also revisiting mechanical design choices that can deliver incremental gains when applied selectively.

Lower power consumption adds to the appeal. Reduced electricity use can cut operating costs and improve emissions intensity, both of which have become more important as producers face pressure to extend the life of existing wells with tighter budgets.

As shale basins continue to mature, the industry is not settling on a single lift solution. Instead, operators are testing smaller adjustments, weighing vendor claims against field results, and looking for practical ways to manage decline rather than chase growth.