Keppel to build $425 million mid-water harsh-environment rig
Further to the announcement on 28 February 2018 on the letter of intent signed by Keppel Offshore & Marine, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Keppel FELS, with Awilco Drilling, Keppel FELS has secured a contract from Awilco to construct a mid-water semisubmersible drilling rig for harsh environment use, worth about $425 million.
As part of the transaction, Awilco has independent options to order up to three additional similar rigs to be exercised within 12, 24 and 36 months respectively. The prices of the three additional rigs are subject to cost adjustments and will only be finalized and announced separately if and when the options are exercised.
The rig, scheduled for completion in Q1 2021, the rig will be built to Moss Maritime‘s CS60 ECO MW design. Compared with the ultra-deepwater CS60, this is a compact version specially designed, configured and outfitted for mid-water operations of up to depths of 1,500 m.
Chris Ong, CEO of Keppel O&M, said: “We have worked closely with Awilco to customize the CS60 for mid-water and harsh environments. In addition, the use of real time data in the rig’s operations and maintenance will enhance its efficiency and robustness, providing a competitive advantage for harsh-environment operations. We will also incorporate Keppel O&M’s cost-effective engineering and construction solutions in this purpose-built rig. With a strong track record of having delivered 25 semis since 2000, we are confident of delivering this rig to the highest standards to Awilco safely, on time and within budget.”
Boasting a low environmental footprint, the drilling rig is designed for operations in harsh environments, including the Norwegian Continental Shelf, UK Continental shelf and Barents Sea. Equipped with a hydraulic hoisting system capable of 2 million lb of lifting capacity, it also features an optimized 12-point, thruster-assisted mooring system for vessel stationkeeping, complete with hybrid power supply and energy saving features. The rig is also equipped with state-of-the-art digitalization, including condition monitoring systems, which will enhance the drilling efficiency and reliability of the rig, while reducing likelihood of downtime.
Jon Oliver Bryce, CEO of Awilco Drilling, said: “We see growing activity in the harsh-environment mid-water rig segment, with utilization increasing, especially in the North Sea. This will be the third semi to join our fleet. With the options to order another three rigs, we are well-positioned for the market recovery. This newbuild rig will be purpose designed with the latest technology, making it cost effective for our customers. The market has a clear preference for high specification rigs from a reliable shipyard like Keppel FELS.”
