In December 2023, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) officially granted approval for Shell's environment plan, marking a significant step forward for the oil major's upcoming seabed survey within production licenses AC/PL1 and WA-33-PL. The approved seabed survey is a crucial component of the broader Crux development project.

The comprehensive seabed survey is set to encompass both geophysical and geotechnical surveys, aiming to delve into sub-seabed geological conditions. The main areas of concentration involve comprehending the conditions at the suggested starting point for the pipeline laying and the locations for the pipeline end manifold (PLEM) for the Crux pipeline. Moreover, the survey plans to evaluate the geological conditions for the proposed pipeline end terminations (PLET) foundations at both the Crux and Prelude terminations of the suggested Crux pipeline.

The scope of the seabed survey extends beyond geological assessments. It aims to identify potential seabed debris and obstructions, map the nature and distribution of seabed surface types along potential pipeline routes, and accurately measure water depth while mapping seabed topography. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the seabed environment and its suitability for the proposed infrastructure.

Scheduled to take place in Commonwealth and Ashmore Cartier marine waters, the Crux seabed survey location is situated 200 km offshore northwest Australia and 460 km north-northeast of Broome. The water depth ranges from 160 m to around 260 m from mean sea level (MSL). The survey is anticipated to be completed within one week, although a contingency plan accounts for a potential duration of up to 30 days to accommodate unforeseen circumstances and additional survey activities.

The Shell-operated Crux development, given the green light in May 2022, is strategically located in Commonwealth waters within the northern Browse Basin. Positioned 190 kilometers offshore northwest Australia and 620 km northeast of Broome, the project operates in approximately 165 meters of water depth. The Crux joint venture, led by Shell Australia as the operator and SGH Energy as its partner, is diligently advancing the project.

The project's initial environmental approval, the Crux Offshore Project Proposal (OPP), was granted in August 2020 by NOPSEMA, emphasizing the commitment to robust environmental management practices.

The Crux development is envisaged to feature a remotely operated platform from Prelude, with an initial plan to drill five wells. An export pipeline will link the platform to Prelude, spanning approximately 160 kilometers southwest of Crux. Shell has outlined ambitious timelines, with the anticipation of first gas production in 2027.

In essence, the NOPSEMA-approved seabed survey is a pivotal milestone, enabling Shell to gather critical geological and environmental data essential for the successful execution of the Crux development. As the project progresses, these surveys will contribute to informed decision-making, ensuring the sustainable and efficient development of this significant energy venture.