Customer Challenge
Having progressed through the Concept Selection phase and selected a satellite platform development strategy for two offshore fields, our client sought a more precise design, cost estimation, and scheduling of surface infrastructures to reach the critical stages of Final Investment Decision (FID) and Rig tendering. The challenge lay in considering various factors, such as the feasibility of tripod platforms, the requirements for flow assurance injection lines, and the possibility of local construction. Striking the right balance between cost-effectiveness and safety compliance, all while aiming for an EPC completion in two-year’s time and addressing host platform operating requirements and constraints, was of paramount importance.
Solution
A forward-thinking « common design » approach was adopted to optimize engineering efforts, streamline the selection of structural elements, and achieve competitive procurement pricing. Deliberate analysis led to the choice of a quadripod design, featuring four well slots for robust structural support, meticulously accounting for bathymetry and moderate seabed temperatures to eliminate the need for continuous pour point depressant injection. Additionally, for the larger field, two smaller platform designs were adopted, one dedicated to production and the other to injection, facilitating local construction, rig installation, and procurement. These two phased smaller platforms were chosen, keeping in mind the investor’s risk-averse profile.
Outcome & Value Delivery
Our relentless pursuit of synergies during umbilical installation, employing zap-lok over welding technology, and leveraging local knowledge of the Congolese market led to impressive results. We accelerated first oil production by six months and significantly reduced CAPEX by approximately 30% compared to international procurement and construction approaches. The identification of missing critical information, such as host platform riser details, Geotechnical survey at platforms’ locations, and Geophysical survey of pipelines and cables’ corridors, enabled smoother subsequent stages of Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and EPC. Crucially, our innovative planning ensured project profitability and even offered a buffer in case of delays, allowing for flexibility without impacting FID dates.
