Apollo helped a UKCS operator unlock new value from an ageing FPSO, re-engineering topsides, marine systems, and electrification to meet future field demands and a 20-year design life.
Summary
Apollo was tasked by an independent UKCS energy business to repurpose and extend the operational life of an FPSO for redeployment in a new field.
Key components included topsides upgrades (produced water, chemical injection, and control system enhancements), marine works (moorings, anchors, and fairlead adjustments), electrification (INTOG 66kV supply, 500Te e-house installation), and life extension efforts (development of upgrade/repair scopes).
The problem
Apollo was contracted to deliver the DEFINE phase study to identify and develop the necessary upgrades and modifications to the FPSO topside and marine systems required for redeployment to the new Field.
The key drivers were to:
- Accommodate production and processing of the fluids from the new Field, with consideration for future satellite fields.
- Comply with current regulatory requirements, notably for electrification readiness.
- Address repair, obsolescence, and life extension to satisfy a 20-year design life once on station.
The process
The objective of the DEFINE phase study was to further develop the options selected in the previous SELECT project phase and demonstrate the project remained attractive for sanction and Final Investment Decision (FID).
This included:
- A comprehensive Front End Engineering Design (FEED) study.
- Preparation of engineering deliverables.
- An EPC scope of work, Class III CAPEX estimate, and Level 3 EPC schedule.
The details
Apollo’s integrated project team included over 40 engineers working alongside the client’s technical team and Project Management Office (PMO).
Key aspects of the study included:
- Redeployment Readiness:
Comprehensive review of the FPSO’s topside and marine systems to assess readiness for redeployment. Identified modifications to processing, utility systems, and power generation to support future operational demands. - Electrification:
Ensured the FPSO is ‘electrification ready’ to allow the asset to be powered entirely from imported power. Integration aspects included installing a new E-House, transformer. - Repair and Life Extension:
Comprehensive review of the FPSO systems and structures to identify modifications and upgrades needed to extend the FPSO’s service life and improve operational reliability. - Mooring and Anchors:
Modification to the mooring spread, anchors, and fairleads to accommodate environmental conditions at the new location and comply with updated design standards. Developed in collaboration with the original FPSO designer. - Execution Strategy:
Produced a detailed EPC package, including scope of work, Class III CAPEX estimate, and Level III schedule.
The outcome
Apollo successfully delivered the 35,000 man-hour DEFINE study within an aggressive 7-month delivery schedule to meet project timelines.
The study provided the client and project stakeholders with the necessary information, risks, and opportunities to support strategic decision-making for the Final Investment Decision and the project’s transition to the EXECUTE phase.