Two platform supply vessels (PSVs) will be converted into geotechnical survey vessels for offshore projects following Fugro’s purchase from P&O Maritime Logistics
Fugro has agreed to acquire 2015-built Topaz Endurance and Topaz Energy, and plans to repurpose them to support subsea surveys in the offshore oil, gas and renewables sectors.
Geotechnical vessels are key strategic assets for Fugro as it builds business in the rapidly growing offshore renewable energy market. With the purchase of these PSVs, Fugro said it would maintain a balanced vessel portfolio while keeping future flexibility. Fugro said growing demand prompted it to increase capacity through acquisitions.
“Securing long-term capacity is critical to capture growth, in particular in the global offshore wind market,” said Fugro.
It said charter rates for survey vessels are increasing and the vessel market is expected to remain tight during 2023 and beyond.
The purchase of these PSVs also supports Fugro’s net-zero emissions 2035 roadmap, as they are significantly more energy efficient than the company’s current fleet, and could be upgraded in the future with hybrid propulsion or to use alternative marine fuels.
Fugro is also investing in autonomous and remotely operated vessels for ocean and subsea surveys. As part of its uncrewed vessel strategy and net-zero emissions roadmap, it celebrated the launch of its new remote operations centre (ROC) in St John’s, Canada, 21 February.
This hub will enable Fugro experts to control offshore survey operations remotely for safer, more efficient and sustainable projects.
The St John’s ROC will serve offshore energy and other marine-based clients work in Canada, such as surveys in harsh operating conditions and for long-distance mobilisations. “By limiting the number of crew required to work offshore, remote survey technologies will help clients minimise project risk while significantly reducing their carbon emissions,” said Fugro.
“Clients will also benefit from improved project timelines as data processing takes place in near-real time, allowing faster access to critical project information.”
Fugro built the ROC with support from the federally funded Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Oil and Gas Industry Recovery Assistance Fund.
“The ability to perform remote operations, provide processing and data management services, all from our control facility in St John’s, represents a pivotal moment for this region,” said Fugro Canada marine asset integrity manager Pat Byrne. “It is exciting to consider the benefits this shift will bring, not only to our clients but also to our workforce.”
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