Subsea Processing versus Host Selection: An Imperative Correlation

Abstract

Abstract Subsea processing (SP) technologies and host facilities are distinct building blocks in offshore oil and gas field development; they can be regarded as complements or alternates depending on the given scenario. This paper will present a unique insight into these scenarios including applicable interactions. It will highlight the key parameters in this rarely investigated correlation which influence concept selection and full field development (FFD). The paper will also shed some light on key FFD drivers such as reservoir size and (qualitative) economics. This paper is based on thoroughly conducted secondary research covering 72 past, present, and potential-future related projects around the world. A multidisciplinary approach leveraging expertise in field development, topsides and subsea processing was developed to highlight the trends and possible future applications. The study reveals a direct correlation between subsea processing systems and host selection which plays a vital role in concept feasibility studies and full field development. Numerous subsea processing parameters have been considered during this study and a few have shown significant effects on host selection - reservoir size, water depth, field typology, etc. The generated trends reveal interesting winners and losers for various technical configurations, including a slight technology limitation dependence on geographical region. Although it may be possible to predict future applications of subsea processing technology and optimize designs based on the host's interaction with the subsea processing system, the market uncertainties still remain high; nevertheless, recommended areas of focus are presented in this paper based on identified gaps. There are not many publications on this subject; therefore some of the observations presented in this paper are novel.