DeepOcean has successfully completed subsea removal activities at two North Sea fields operated by Spirit Energy, a collaboration that highlights a commitment to sustainable practices in the energy sector.
On July 14, DeepOcean announced the successful recovery of the subsea wellhead protection structure from the Seven Seas field and the disconnection of subsea infrastructure at the Grove West field, both situated in the southern North Sea. This project, reflecting DeepOcean’s operational capabilities, was managed from their Aberdeen office and utilized the construction vessel Edda Freya for the retrieval activities.
The Seven Seas structure was located approximately 80 kilometers off the East Yorkshire coast at a depth of 33 meters, while the Grove West structure was situated 130 kilometers from the UK coastline at a depth of around 40 meters. These locations are considered challenging but achievable, showcasing DeepOcean’s expertise in subsea operations.
Robin Mawhinney, Executive Vice President for DeepOcean’s EMEA region, noted, “The wellhead protection structure at Seven Seas has served the field since 2011 and remains in very good shape. The piles were cut three meters below the seabed, and the subsequent retrieval of the structure was conducted seamlessly.” This statement highlights the resilience and functionality of the equipment used in the North Sea’s harsh environment.
The scope of this project also included the disconnection of a spool from a subsea Christmas tree at Grove West, which was performed using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). This innovation is indicative of the technical advancements within the subsea sector, facilitating operations that ensure safety and efficiency.
Øyvind Mikaelsen, CEO of DeepOcean, remarked, “At Grove West, we disconnected two subsea flanges using methodologies and proprietary tooling developed during the Gryphon Alpha FPSO removal project last year. This project adds to DeepOcean’s growing track record of meeting project objectives across subsea decommissioning campaigns.” This statement underscores the company’s commitment to refining their techniques and methodologies for improved outcomes.
This operation is part of Spirit Energy’s broader decommissioning program, which seeks to responsibly manage and minimize environmental impacts associated with exiting production fields. The overall goal is to prepare for future rig campaigns while ensuring minimal disruption to the marine ecosystem.
Ceri Wheaton, Spirit Energy’s Decommissioning Manager, emphasized the company’s dedication to sustainability: “We are committed to maximizing material recovery and minimizing waste throughout our decommissioning activities. By working closely with specialist contractors such as DeepOcean and leveraging the UK supply chain, we have safely recycled more than 95% of materials from decommissioned assets and infrastructure.” This focus not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances efficiency through seamless logistics and the responsible reuse of valuable resources.
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