Abstract
A subsea boosting system was implemented to increase the recovery from the Gulf of Mexico's Dalmatian field, which saw its first oil in 2014. Because today's challenging market requires a high focus on cost reduction, a great effort was undertaken to enable this project to materialize, ranging from the application of fit-for-purpose technology and a suitable contracting strategy. This is the industry's first project in which an alternative business model will enable the delivery and installation of a subsea boosting system. Furthermore, the Dalmatian project will represent the longest deepwater multiphase boosting stepout distance, applying high-voltage motor technology.
The scope of the contract calls for the supply and installation of a subsea multiphase boosting system at 1,775-m water depth, including topside and subsea power and control system, as well as a 35-km combined power and control umbilical. The execution model enables a turnkey integrated project from design through supply, installation, and commissioning. This fit-for-purpose subsea boosting technology will improve the operator's ultimate recovery through a cost-effective and record breaking tieback. The innovative execution model that was applied further contributes to greater certainty of cost and return on investment.
This paper addresses the technology and alternative business model that was used to make this project economically viable in a volatile and challenging market situation.
