twitter linkedinfacebookacp contact us

ABB tests world-first subsea power technology system

Technology

Swiss firm ABB has completed a 3,000-hour shallow water test on its subsea power distribution and conversion technology system at a sheltered harbour in Vaasa, Finland

The US$100mn research, design and development project between ABB and Equinor brings the groundbreaking potential for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable offshore oil and gas production.

For the first time worldwide, energy companies will be able to access a reliable supply of up to 100 megawatts of power, over distances up to 600 km and down to 3,000 m water depth, at pressures that could shatter a brick, according to ABB.

This is all achievable with a single cable with little or no maintenance for up to 30 years, making oil and gas production feasible in far out and deep ocean environments.

ABB’s complete subsea power distribution and conversion system include a step-down transformer, medium voltage variable speed drives and switchgear, control and low voltage power distribution, and power electronics and control systems.

“This milestone marks an outstanding achievement and is the culmination point of an inspirational technology development achieved through tremendous dedication, expertise and perseverance. It is the result of intensive collaboration by more than 200 scientists and engineers from ABB, Equinor, Total and Chevron in a multi-year, joint effort,” said Peter Terwiesch, president of ABB’s Industrial Automation business.

“Moving the entire oil and gas production facility to the seabed is no longer a dream. Remotely operated, increasingly autonomous, subsea facilities powered by lower-carbon energy are more likely to become a reality as we transition towards a new energy future,” added Terwiesch.

The oil and gas industry has been increasingly adopting AI technology in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

SmartMaster can be used with a range of ABB and third-party instruments. (Image source: ABB)

Comparison of conventional workflow with DUG MP-FWI imaging. (Image source: DUG)

The expansion is expected to increase the plant’s processing capacity from 2.5 to up to 4 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscfd). (Image source: Aramco)

ARO Drilling and IMI announce first Kingdom jack up rig (Image source: ARO)

Oman LNG signed various agreements with Shell Gas to secure its gas supply until 2034. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

GAC Saudi Arabia has extensive operations at major ports in Saudi Arabia. (Image source: GAC Saudi Arabia)

Michael Monica, director sales, marketing and customer care at GPT Industries signs the agreement with Mohamed Altaf, sale manager, Abdulla Fouad Energy Services. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Amin H. Nasser, CEO of Aramco. (Image source: Aramco)

The system can activate notification and hazard mitigation equipment to notify workers and safeguard facilities. (Image source: MSA Safety)

The use of blockchain in the oil and gas sector is set to increase substantially. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The new discoveries will bolster Aramco’s strategy to increase gas production by more than half over 2021 levels, through 2030. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Tethys Oil is currently conducting final preparations ahead of the rig mobilisation for the drilling of the first exploration well on Block 58, Kunooz-1 in Fahd.

Source: SafeStart

The new technology is designed to address the challenging conditions in unconventional wells. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The Ampelmann A-type enabling safe offshore access in the Middle East. (Image source: Ampelmann)

Aramco has produced the first unconventional tight gas from its South Ghawar operational area ahead of schedule. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Tethys Oil is currently conducting final preparations ahead of the rig mobilisation for the drilling of the first exploration well on Block 58, Kunooz-1 in Fahd.

TotalEnergies and SONATRACH will develop gas resources in Algeria's north-east Timimoun region, (Image source: Adobe Stock).

By using analytics to augment and empower the workforce, pipeline operators can optimise operations and improve asset availability. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The oil price is hovering around the US$90/bbl mark. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The Craig International Qatar team. (Image source: Craig International)

The SuperFill II diverter reduces induced surge pressure. (Image source: Halliburton)

Among other services, KBR will offer proprietary equipment for NCIC's 1,200 metric tonnes per day ammonia plant. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The expansion is expected to increase the plant’s processing capacity from 2.5 to up to 4 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscfd). (Image source: Aramco)

Comparison of conventional workflow with DUG MP-FWI imaging. (Image source: DUG)

ADNOC Gas recorded robust financial and operational results in 2023. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Over 4,000 km of SoluForce pipe has been installed around the world. (Image source: SoluForce)

Block 56 is targeted for commercialisation in 2024. (Image source: Canva)

The programme will optimise asset lifecycle, enhance machinery performance and improve overall reliability. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The use of blockchain in the oil and gas sector is set to increase substantially. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Source: SafeStart

GAC Saudi Arabia has extensive operations at major ports in Saudi Arabia. (Image source: GAC Saudi Arabia)

The company is well positioned in 2024, with a reshaped and resilient business and a strong balance sheet. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The vessel addresses the growing demand for accurate hydrographic data. (Image source: Fugro)

The virtual inhouse seismic processing centre will allow each of the decentralised business units of Wintershall Dea globally to collaborate efficiently and directly with DUG. (Image source: Adobe Stock)