Feasibility Study of Autonomous Wave-Photovoltaic (PV) Buoy to Power Subsea Equipment

Abstract

Abstract Autonomous wave-photovoltaic (PV) buoy is a cost-effective and efficient solution for powering subsea equipment in offshore oil and gas operations. The buoy can be deployed in remote locations where fixed structures may not be feasible. This study assesses the feasibility of the buoy to electrify a subsea Christmas tree in the Johan Sverdrup field in the North Sea. A Python mathematical model is developed to evaluate the power output of the buoy. The finding shows that wave energy harnessed by using a wave energy converter (WEC) at the selected site is sufficient to electrify a subsea Christmas tree. Further investigation is required to identify the suitable subsea equipment to be electrified by the buoy.