In a significant development, Ocean Installer, in collaboration with Oceaneering, has successfully secured a major contract from TotalEnergies EP Angola and its partners of Block 17. This contract is specifically designated for the execution of transportation and installation tasks associated with the Girassol Life Extension (GIR FLEX) project. The GIR FLEX initiative is a crucial component of TotalEnergies' overarching strategy to prolong the operational life of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which has been actively producing since its inception in 2001 and is now slated to continue until 2031.

Ocean Installer's comprehensive scope of responsibilities encompasses various crucial elements of the project. This includes the recovery of the existing risers, as well as the transportation and installation of ten replacement risers and a gas lift umbilical. Furthermore, the company will be engaged in the fabrication and assembly of permanent equipment within the country, along with an extensive campaign focused on topsides support and modifications. The complexity and diversity of tasks within the scope make this project a notable endeavor for Ocean Installer.

Collaborating on the in-country aspects of the project, Oceaneering, Ocean Installer's consortium partner, will play a pivotal role. Oceaneering will take charge of air and saturation diving services, incorporating associated project management, engineering, and procurement activities. Additionally, Oceaneering will manage all in-country operations, ensuring a seamless and efficient execution of the project.

To streamline operations, Ocean Installer's project management and engineering team will be stationed at the company's Stavanger office. Meanwhile, Oceaneering will provide support from locations in Luanda, Aberdeen, and Stavanger, underscoring the international collaboration and coordination involved in this venture.

The geographical focus of the project lies in Block 17, which is operated by TotalEnergies in conjunction with Equinor, ExxonMobil, Azule Energy, and Sonangol P&P. Block 17 is situated 210 kilometers off the coast of Luanda and holds significance as the location of the Girassol field, discovered in 1996. Spanning an expansive area of 14 by 10 kilometers, Girassol emerged as the inaugural field within Block 17 to commence production in December 2001. Notably, it marked a pioneering deepwater project in Angola, contributing to the country's evolving energy landscape.

The successful collaboration between Ocean Installer and Oceaneering on this noteworthy contract underscores the strategic importance of maximizing the lifespan of existing assets in the offshore oil and gas sector. As the Girassol Life Extension project progresses, the combined expertise and capabilities of the two companies are poised to make a lasting impact on the operational efficiency and sustainability of the FPSO, thereby contributing to the continued success of TotalEnergies' endeavors in Block 17 and the broader offshore energy landscape.