Latest news with #OffshoreTechnology
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Business
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Walking towards the light: how solar and hydrocarbons can work together
The big oil and gas (O&G) industry players are relatively new entrants into the renewable energy world but are making serious moves into areas such as solar. In fact, solar power systems have become an essential addition to many remote O&G operations, providing a useful clean energy source for critical infrastructure. Renewable power generation is thus emerging as a key strategy to support the O&G industry's decarbonisation objectives. But how can solar energy and O&G production work together effectively and to their mutual benefit? Blending solar into hydrocarbons From remote monitoring systems to enhanced oil recovery, solar applications are transforming the sector's operational landscape. 'Solar power can be effectively integrated into oil and gas operations, especially onshore/nearshore ones, to offset the fuel usage in electricity generation and heating applications,' says Ravindra Jayant Puranik, oil & gas associate project manager at Offshore Technology's parent company GlobalData. The technology proves particularly valuable in off-grid locations, where 80% of annual energy demand can be met through solar installations. 'If there is land available, financial viability and necessary permits secured, solar can be deployed as a backup power source. Solar installations can provide long-term cost savings by reducing the reliance on diesel generators, especially in remote locations with high fuel transportation costs,' Puranik says, adding that 'depending upon the size of the solar farm, certain pumps used for oil production could operate entirely on renewable power'. Solar-powered remote monitoring capabilities include well site monitoring and control systems, well pumps, gathering centres, pipeline monitoring systems, tank level monitoring and operating security cameras. While the intermittency of solar energy can be a challenge, it can be most effective when deployed along with battery storage solutions for O&G operations, Puranik notes. He adds that 'solar power can also be used in refineries for pre-heating of crude oil during the refinery conversion process, although it does not produce temperatures high enough for cracking of hydrocarbons into high-value products.' He points to Marathon Petroleum's Illinois refinery using solar power to build on its sustainability performance, with the refinery being part of a project to install solar panels on adjacent refinery-owned land. The 30-acre solar farm will potentially avoid consuming enough grid electricity each year to equal the annual energy use of roughly 1,000 homes. According to a company statement in late 2023, during peak sunlight the panels will deliver 5MW of electricity. Some offshore O&G platforms are also utilising solar photovoltaic systems to power lighting, communications and other administrative functions. 'Solar could predominantly replace diesel generators and other carbon-intensive power sources at an oil production or processing site, thereby eliminating their emissions, which would also bode well for the public image of the company/industry,' Puranik adds. Solar: a viable investment for the O&G industry A report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the US Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for energy systems research and development, says integrating clean energy into O&G operations could reduce emissions and help lower overall costs. The report states that a 'calculated cost of emissions reduction ($/tCO₂e, or tons of carbon dioxide equivalent) based on renewable energy generated indicates that a cost of carbon of $7/tCO₂e would result in a breakeven point for a renewable energy system generating 50% of the site's load'. Using data from several oilfields integrating solar in the Delaware Basin, the results indicate that smaller renewable energy technologies – for example, generating 5% of a site's load – are most 'cost optimal', decreasing 'both annual energy ($469) and demand charges ($65) by reducing grid purchases'. A captive solar plant could also generate considerable savings in terms of operational expenses, adds Puranik, and the 'long-term nature of O&G projects aligns well with the durable lifespan of solar installations, making the investment economically viable over time'. However, this is only possible if the refiner can invest a significant capital to set up the solar farm and integrate its electricity with the refinery equipment without any major modifications, and if there is land available nearby for this purpose, says Puranik. Oman ahead of the game As far back as 2015, Oman's largest O&G producer, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), announced plans to construct a 1,021MW solar thermal plant in Miraah for thermal enhanced oil recovery at the Amal oilfield. The facility utilises sun to generate steam, which is then used in thermal enhanced oil recovery to extract heavy and viscous oil from the site. According to PDO, the facility can conserve 5.6 trillion British Thermal Units of natural gas per year, enough to meet the residential power requirements of 209,000 people in Oman. California's Aera Energy has pioneered solar integration in the state's oil operations, with construction beginning in 2019, delivering both steam and electricity to power operations at the Belridge oilfield in central California. Belridge produces around 100,000 barrels of (mostly heavy) oil per day, which is easier to recover using steam injection technology, which when injected into the well makes the oil less viscous. The solar project reduces the consumption of natural gas and lowers the carbon footprint of its operations. Likewise, integrating solar infrastructure allows O&G companies to diversify their energy sources and reduce their dependence on a single source, making it a viable investment for the industry. O&G companies are increasingly 'diversifying their portfolios to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and manage risks linked to volatile oil prices and evolving regulations', says GlobalData's February 2025 report, Strategic Intelligence: Renewable Energy in Oil & Gas, citing solar investments made by the O&G industry's biggest players: Shell, BP and TotalEnergies. It adds that 'expanding into clean energy not only strengthens their resilience but also enhances their brand reputation among environmentally conscious consumers'. Solar repurposing O&G infrastructure When asked if solar power operators and developers are looking at moving the other way, into O&G production, to combine power sources, Puranik replies that 'traditional renewable power producers tend to stay within their domain for reputational concerns, and keeping investors happy'. However, the clean energy industry does benefit from the other way around by repurposing the O&G sector's infrastructure. Christian Fong, electricity expert at the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), an independent, non-partisan non-profit organization providing research and consulting on sustainability and energy innovations, says that in the 'power sector, fossil fuel infrastructure can be repurposed with clean energy solutions, including solar but also wind and battery storage as well'. RMI research finds that new clean energy in the form of solar, wind and storage can utilise the interconnection points of existing coal and gas plants to add up to 250GW of clean electricity that would reduce overall costs to the US grid by 2035. For context, says Fong, 'that is nearly the size of a quarter of the existing electric capacity on the US grid today'. 'Existing fossil plants can currently share their interconnection points, so that clean energy sources can provide electricity to the grid when those plants are not in use,' adds Fong, and when fossil plants retire 'they can transfer their interconnection rights to clean energy sources to make it quicker and less costly to connect to the grid'. A representative of the North Sea Transition Authority, responsible for maximising the economic recovery of oil from the UK North Sea, tells Offshore Technology that 'we do require operators to consider alternatives to decommissioning in the years prior to cessation of production'. 'Options may include repurposing infrastructure for energy transition projects – the best candidates for this are pipelines, for CO₂ and hydrogen transportation, reusing the infrastructure for new oil and gas projects, and even changes of ownership or operatorship.' "Walking towards the light: how solar and hydrocarbons can work together" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Consumers Energy upgrades 135-mile natural gas pipeline in Michigan
Consumers Energy is working on a summer construction programme to replace 135 miles of century-old cast-iron and steel pipelines across 15 communities in the US state of Michigan. As part of the Natural Gas Delivery Plan, the programme will upgrade the company's statewide natural gas system, affecting over 1.8 million customers. More than 600 employees and contractors are engaged in the effort, ensuring the natural gas system can withstand all seasons. Consumers Energy natural gas engineering and supply vice-president Holly Bowers stated: "These projects are a visible demonstration of Consumers Energy's commitment to delivering natural gas safely, affordably and reliably to our friends and neighbours who count on us. "We focus on work that will have the most impact, ensuring that our natural gas system will be reliable for many more years." The construction is spread across various regions and includes an 18-mile stretch in Livonia and Warren, and smaller projects in Bloomfield, Pontiac and Royal Oak in southeast Michigan. Flint will see 10 miles of upgrades, with additional work in Owosso and Fowlerville. Saginaw/Bay City, Kalamazoo, Lansing and Midland are also on the list. These projects complement the ongoing Four Cities metro pipeline replacement in southeast Michigan, part of a broader initiative that will extend throughout the decade. Local pipeline upgrades are also being conducted statewide. The modernisation is expected to keep household costs below $3 a day. It will provide affordable natural gas and stimulate the economy through job creation in the coming years. Bowers added: "We appreciate the patience of our customers as we carry out these upgrades in the coming months and continue to deliver natural gas reliably and affordably, regardless of what Mother Nature throws at us." "Consumers Energy upgrades 135-mile natural gas pipeline in Michigan" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EU plans to stop Russian gas and oil imports by 2027
The European Commission has proposed a gradual phase-out of Russian gas and oil imports into the EU by the end of 2027. The legislative proposal follows last month's REPowerEU road map, paving the way to ensure the EU's full energy independence from Russia. This decision is part of the EU strategy to eliminate vulnerabilities associated with dependence on Russian fossil fuels, thereby increasing its competitiveness. European Commission president Ursulavon der Leyen said: "Russia has repeatedly attempted to blackmail us by weaponising its energy supplies. We have taken clear steps to turn off the tap and end the era of Russian fossil fuels in Europe for good.' The proposal suggests that eliminating Russian gas imports will not significantly impact the economy or jeopardise the security of supply due to alternative global suppliers, a robust interconnected gas market within the union, and sufficient EU import infrastructure. The phase-out will substantially contribute to the objectives of the Competitiveness Compass, the Clean Industrial Deal and the Affordable Energy Action Plan. These initiatives emphasise the economic benefits of a cleaner, independent energy system and support Europe's decarbonisation goals. The proposed regulation outlines a stepwise discontinuation of pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) originating from or indirectly exported by Russia. It also includes measures to ensure a complete cessation of Russian oil imports by the end of 2027. Under the proposed ban, new contracts for Russian gas imports will be prohibited, starting 1 January 2026. Existing short-term contracts must end by 17 June 2026, with certain exceptions for land-locked countries reliant on pipeline gas linked to long-term contracts, which are permitted until the end of 2027. All imports under long-term contracts are set to cease by the end of 2027. Additionally, long-term contracts for LNG terminal services involving Russian customers or entities will be banned, freeing up terminal capacity for alternative suppliers and bolstering the resilience of energy markets. "EU plans to stop Russian gas and oil imports by 2027" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
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Alberta proposes new oil pipeline to British Columbia, seeks private sector leadership
Alberta is seeking a private sector proponent for a potential new crude oil pipeline, aiming to connect the oil-rich province to the Port of Prince Rupert in British Columbia, reported Reuters. Premier Danielle Smith announced the initiative at an energy conference in Calgary, highlighting the province's strategy to engage with Canada's major pipeline companies. The proposed pipeline, which has the capacity to carry one million barrels per day (1mbbl/d), is part of Alberta's plan to diversify its oil export markets, which are currently heavily reliant on the US. This comes in the wake of trade tensions and tariff threats from the US, underlining the need for Canada to broaden its trade horizons. Premier Danielle Smith said in a statement: 'The federal government should act now to remove production caps and join us in supporting an oil pipeline to the west coast, increasing access to tidewater and ensuring we can continue to provide Alberta-made energy for our valued partners around the world.' Smith expressed the province's openness to a consortium approach for the pipeline's construction or to support a single company that steps forward as the main proponent. The province recognises the strategic importance of a new export pipeline in supporting the long-term growth of Canada's oil industry, which achieved record production last year with the opening of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion in May, the report stated. The premier also touched upon the potential benefits of aligning the development of the pipeline with the Pathways Alliance carbon capture and storage project, which aims to reduce emissions from Canada's energy sector. However, the Pathways project, estimated to cost between $10bn (C$13.65bn) and $20bn, has yet to secure funding support from the government. Earlier this month, wildfires in Alberta resulted in the suspension of roughly 350,000 barrels per day of heavy crude production, approximately 7% of Canada's overall oil output. "Alberta proposes new oil pipeline to British Columbia, seeks private sector leadership" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SeaRenergy partners with Tethys Robotics to boost offshore subsea inspections
SeaRenergy, a provider of comprehensive offshore services, has announced a strategic partnership with Tethys Robotics, a Swiss company specialising in subsea robotics. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of offshore subsea inspection services by integrating the innovative Tethys ONE system into SeaRenergy's service offerings. The Tethys ONE underwater robot is designed for automated subsea inspections, offering maximum flexibility and high-quality data collection, even in challenging underwater environments. Its advanced navigation systems and sensors are expected to improve inspection processes for SeaRenergy's clients. SeaRenergy CEO Benjamin Vordemfelde said: 'Integrating the Tethys ONE into our operations aligns with our commitment to leveraging innovative technologies to provide superior services to our clients. We believe this partnership will set new standards in subsea inspection efficiency and reliability." Through this partnership, SeaRenergy will offer subsea services that leverage the capabilities of Tethys ONE, providing more agile and cost-effective inspection solutions. The initial focus will be on pilot projects in the North Sea and Baltic Sea, targeting the inspection of offshore wind farm structures and subsea cables. Tethys Robotics CEO Jonas Wüst added: 'We are excited to welcome SeaRenergy as an official partner. Their extensive offshore footprint and technical expertise make them the perfect collaborator to demonstrate the full potential of the Tethys ONE system in offshore inspection campaigns.' SeaRenergy has been serving the offshore wind industry since 2010, providing consulting, engineering, marine, QHSE (quality, health, safety and environment) and staffing services. "SeaRenergy partners with Tethys Robotics to boost offshore subsea inspections" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
