There are several isolated assets situated far from the shore where electrification is not a feasible option for decarbonising power generation. For these assets, an alternative method to decarbonise power generation is required.
Summary
This study forms part of a wider portfolio of projects under the Net Zero Technology Centre’s Alternative Fuel Gas Turbine (AFGT) programme.
With power generation accounting for approximately 70% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil and gas industry, it is evident that measures to decarbonise offshore power generation will be required to meet the emission reduction targets outlined in the North Sea Transition Deal (NSTD).
Apollo explored the options available for a fuel change-out and the resultant implications on a FPSO located in the UKCS. The primary focus was to reduce onboard emissions to align with net zero and energy transition targets. Phase 1 of this project centred around understanding the key differences between alternative fuels and traditional fuels. It included looking at OEM offerings around generator sets and boilers. The information and knowledge gained within Phase 1 acted as the foundation for the second phase of the study. Phase 2 of this project built on the findings from Phase 1 and further develop the options deemed feasible. A range of options were then developed for the adoption of alternative fuels on the FPSO.
Scope of Work
The purpose was to understand the technical, regulatory and technology implications of using an alternative fuel as opposed to gas and/or diesel on an existing offshore production asset. The study considered four alternative fuels for the FPSO: alternative diesel, methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen.
Phase 1 of the study centred around understanding the key differences between alternative fuels and traditional fuels. It involved reviewing and consolidating the existing work on alternative fuels so that the current status can be determined. A range of options was then developed for the adoption of alternative fuels on the FPSO.
Phase 2 of the study looked to build on the findings from Phase 1 and further develop the options deemed feasible. More detailed discussions with the OEMs was held to gather more detail about the implications of changing to an alternative fuel. Using the information obtained, a detailed assessment of the remaining options was conducted.
Outcome
The study considered four alternative fuels for the FPSO: alternative diesel, methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. Each option was assessed in terms of associated cost, technology readiness and impact on emissions reduction. Alternative diesel was found to be the only practical and economically feasible option. It was found to be the simplest option to implement and required no significant modifications or changes to operating procedures. Apollo presented the findings from the study alongside recommendations and a technology roadmap in a study report.
Following this study we are engaging with the client looking at the next phase of the project. Sign up for our newsletter to be keep up to date with ongoing developments.
If you’d like to know more about our alternative fuels projects contact us on info@apollo.engineer