### Ocean Installer’s Strategic Leap into Brazil
Norway’s Ocean Installer, part of the Moreld Group, is making waves by entering the Brazilian market. This expansion comes with a significant contract won from Equinor, the Norwegian state-owned energy giant. It marks a major milestone for Ocean Installer, showcasing its strategic vision and operational capabilities in a prominent international arena.
### Contract Details and Scope of Work
The newly secured contract revolves around the installation of rigid well jumpers connecting flowlines to subsea trees, in addition to flying leads and associated pre-commissioning services. This work will take place at the Bacalhau field in Brazil’s Santos Basin, spanning a timeline of four and a half years, with potential for extensions and related activities such as rigid jumper fabrication.
This offshore project is a critical undertaking, allowing Ocean Installer to leverage its extensive experience in complex subsea installations. The Bacalhau field, known for its ultra-deepwater characteristics at a depth of approximately 2,100 meters, is Equinor’s largest international offshore asset and the first developed by an international operator in Brazil’s pre-salt region.
### The Significance of the Contract Value
The contract holds notable financial significance, with an expected value classified as “significant,” estimated between NOK 500 million and NOK 1 billion (approximately €45.8 million to €91.6 million). Such substantial contracts not only contribute to revenue growth but also represent a vote of confidence in Ocean Installer’s capabilities by a leading global energy player.
### Building a Local Presence
In conjunction with this award, Ocean Installer is making strides to establish a local presence in Brazil. The creation of a Brazilian entity and the onboarding of local employees mark a commitment to integrating into the region. This local recruitment strategy not only fosters community ties but also enhances the company’s operational efficiency by utilizing homegrown talent familiar with the Brazilian market.
### Noteworthy Leaders’ Comments
Geir Austigard, CEO of Moreld, emphasized the importance of this contract, stating, “This award represents a step-change for Moreld.” He pointed out that this is Ocean Installer’s first contract in Brazil, underscoring the project’s significance as it involves production-critical work on a major international asset operated by Equinor. This sentiment reflects the company’s sustained commitment to safety and reliability.
Kevin Murphy, CEO of Ocean Installer, also shared insights, stating, “The long project duration provides a stable foundation to build our local organization in Brazil.” He highlighted Brazil’s attractiveness as a market, filled with a promising pipeline of subsea projects. Murphy’s words encapsulate the strategic foresight that guides Ocean Installer’s ambitions in the country.
### The Bacalhau Field: An Overview
The Bacalhau field itself is a remarkable asset in the offshore oil and gas landscape. Considered one of Equinor’s flagship projects, it symbolizes not just technological advancement but also the growing collaboration between international companies and Brazilian resources. The entire development of this field by an international operator signifies a leap forward for Brazil’s offshore sector, aligning with global energy trends and aspirations.
### Looking Ahead: First Offshore Campaign in 2027
As Ocean Installer gears up for this major undertaking, the first offshore campaign is anticipated in 2027. This timeline allows for comprehensive preparations and strategic planning, ensuring that all aspects of the operations are meticulously executed. The project’s duration and scale offer a solid platform for establishing a robust operational framework in Brazil, setting the stage for future ventures.