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The trend of offshore decommissioning current oil infrastructures is becoming more and more apparent. Especially in the North Sea due to the age of the existing rigs and more stringent environmental regulations that regulate the industry. The low oil price in the past has resulted in a large number of existing oil rigs being commercially viable prompting the owners to review their assets in many cases downgrading their fleet. The offshore decommissioning process remains mandatory, as the abandoned structures and wells can be damaged and pose a potential environmental risk.
In the Gulf of Mexico, the industry took more than 1,000 structures out of service from 2010 through 2014. Now it’s the North Sea’s turn (which involves the UK, Norway, the Netherlands, and Denmark). Here, platform size and complexity as well as the physical and regulatory environment make decommissioning a far more complex and difficult challenge. Current North Sea decommissioning estimates cover removing more than 500 fixed installations and more than 500 subsea production systems, and plugging and abandoning (P&A) more than 10,000 wells.
Naval Architect
In most cases the topsides are removed by reverse installation i.e. the modules are lifted from the platform and placed on a transportation barge or the deck of the crane vessel. Depending on the size and weight of the platform this operation can be a single lift operation or a partial dismantling is required. Both processes require detailed engineering ensuring that the operation is executed safely and with minimal environmental impact.
This work consists of the disconnection, recovery to the surface, transport to shore and unloading of the subsea components, such as BOP’s, jackets and pipelines. Due to the fact that the works take place under the ocean surface the works are highly complex and require detailed planning and engineering. The safe plugging of the well is also an issue that needs special attention.
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What sets us apart?
Saltwater positions itself as a partner for custom engineering solutions. A proven track-record demonstrates that we are competent and that we are able to face any naval engineering challenge. What makes us stand out is our agility. Being agile is in our DNA and enables us to adapt quickly and move fast when needed.
We pride ourselves in being transparent and reliable. These are bold claims that we are staking every day. We communicate loud and clear, we manage expectations, we commit to promises made and we take ownership of a situation when needed.
The expertise of Saltwater in practice
Saltwater was contracted to optimize the lay-out of a cable layer vessel to the ever-developing offshore wind market.
Saltwater was contracted to complete a strength analysis for a cable tank and conducting a motion analysis.
Saltwater performed a feasibility check to convert the Skandi Sotra to a cable laying vessel to support the offshore wind farms.
Five caissons which have been used to moor a spare lock gate needed to be removed and transported.
Saltwater performed a feasibility check on a proposal to convert the PSV Skandi Sotra to a cable laying vessel.
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