ABL to support Allseas on world’s heaviest offshore single-lift operation
Energy and marine consultancy ABL has been appointed by Allseas as marine warranty surveyor (MWS) for the single-lift removal of the Statfjord A topside, a landmark decommissioning project.
Allseas is the offshore contractor undertaking the engineering, preparation, removal and disposal (EPRD) of the Statfjord A platform – a pioneering concrete gravity-base production platform in the North Sea.
Equinor is the operator of the Statfjord field.
Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit, the world’s largest and most versatile construction vessel, will remove the entire Statfjord A topside in a single lift and deliver it to a disposal yard for disposal and recycling. The vessel’s motion-compensated topsides lifting system (TLS) lifting capacity has been upgraded from 48,000 to 60,000 tonnes for this project.
ABL’s operations in Norway will work to reduce risks to an acceptable minimum throughout the critical operation, whilst ensuring that it is delivered in accordance with agreed procedures and in compliance with local regulations. Its scope of work includes independent third-party technical review of procedural documentation, marine assurance services to verify the operational suitability of the proposed fleet, alongside offshore attendance to witness and approve operational delivery.
The scope has been awarded under ABL’s existing framework agreement with Allseas in Norway, reflecting the company’s extensive experience and trusted reputation across major North Sea decommissioning projects.
“We are pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with Allseas in Norway by supporting the safe execution of this trailblazing topside removal and offshore lift operation for Equinor. Statfjord A is a legendary asset, and the project brings significant technical and operational challenges. We look forward to working with Allseas to help deliver this important project.”
Subbi Nookala, ABL’s Country Manager in Norway
ABL Norway will lead the MWS project delivery, drawing on the wider expertise of ABL’s North Sea decommissioning specialists.
ABL is part of Oslo-listed consultancy group Aqualis ASA.
*Photo of Statfjord A platform; Credit: Harald Pettersen/Equinor.
Supporting the Next Generation of North Sea Decommissioning
With decades of experience supporting major offshore removals, ABL provides independent technical, marine assurance and marine warranty expertise to help clients deliver complex decommissioning projects safely, efficiently and compliantly.