BP’s Strategic Subsea Boosting Endeavor in the Gulf of Mexico
UK-headquartered energy giant BP is making significant strides in enhancing its deepwater development in the Gulf of America, commonly known as the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. The latest move comes as BP has officially hired OneSubsea, a joint venture formed by SLB (previously known as Schlumberger), Aker Solutions, and Subsea7. This partnership focuses on deploying a subsea boosting system designed to elevate production rates at the Thunder Horse development.
Recently, BP and its U.S. partner, ExxonMobil, finalized a pivotal investment decision, aiming to amplify production by approximately 15,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day at Thunder Horse. This notable increase underlines the commitment of BP to leverage cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships to enhance output and operational efficiency in the challenging environment of deepwater exploration.
OneSubsea, in collaboration with SLB, Aker Solutions, and Subsea7, will spearhead the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) efforts for this ambitious subsea boosting initiative. The trio of firms has previously secured contracts for BP’s Kaskida and Tiber developments. Each of these projects taps into a standardized subsea boosting system, fostering efficiencies that promise to streamline operations and minimize delays in deployment.
This EPC contract is not merely another box checked in BP’s project list; it signifies a commitment to innovation in subsea technology. The subsea boosting system will encompass comprehensive project management, engineering, manufacturing, and rigorous testing—all critical to ensuring that the Thunder Horse development operates at peak performance. The joint venture’s innovative processing technology is projected to significantly boost production and enhance the recovery of valuable resources.
As Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea, articulates: “Subsea boosting is an important enabler for extending production from existing assets. Our standardized subsea solutions support faster deployment and improved efficiency, helping operators enhance production and recovery while optimizing overall field performance.” This notion encapsulates the essence of modern energy exploration—maximizing output while maintaining operational effectiveness in the deep-sea domain.
Looking ahead, the initial oil from the Thunder Horse subsea pump project is anticipated in 2028. Meanwhile, BP’s Kaskida and Tiber developments are set to follow suit with production expected to commence in 2029 and 2030, respectively. These timelines highlight the urgency and significance of BP’s strategic investments in cutting-edge subsea technology as it navigates the complex landscape of global energy demands.
Power Your Brand With Offshore Energy ⤵️
Take the spotlight and anchor your brand in the heart of the offshore world!
Join us for a bigger impact and amplify your presence at the core hub of the offshore energy community!