Abstract
It has long been recognized that value creation for deepwater projects is predicated based on robust front end engineering and field development planning. Realizing this value requires a multidisciplinary approach that considers early engagement with the SURF execution team and the field development planning specialists, engineering specialists and project execution expertise. This paper presents an overview of recent experience and an illustration of the benefits of this approach. The general principles of field development optimization are presented, with an emphasis on Floater and SURF packages as well as the cost drivers to optimize the interfaces between these packages.
This paper plans to explore the benefits of front end engineering design as it relates to early engagement of the SURF and Floater disciplines. The paper will examine through case studies topics such as: subsea production network alternatives, floater and riser conceptual and early phase design, and interfaces between the floater, riser and production system.
