OMV Anchors and Groundwires

OMV ANCHORS AND GROUND WIRES DECOMMISSIOING

Project Overview

The Whakaaropai FPSO vessel operated near the Māui B platform for approximately ten years until 2006, processing crude oil from the Māui field. After processing, the oil was transferred to tankers for transportation. The FPSO was secured by ten ground wires and anchors. As oil production declined to uneconomical levels, the FPSO was removed, and a permit was obtained to cut the ground wires and temporarily leave them trenched on the seabed along with the flexible flowlines.

A Deemed Marine Dumping Consent (EEZ900010) was issued, allowing the disposal of steel wire at least 790mm below the seabed surface. This consent expired on 2 December 2023, necessitating the removal of the ground wires by this deadline. OMV seized the opportunity to utilize the OMV-chartered AHTSV, Skandi Emerald (SKE), which was in the country for drilling activities, to recover the ground wires and associated anchors before the consent expiration.

The Skandi Emerald successfully removed the ground wires and anchors, transporting them to Port Taranaki for unloading, recycling, and disposal.

Recycling and Reuse

The project's emphasis is on efficient recycling and responsible disposal of recovered materials:

• Recycling: The project involves recycling over 800 tonnes of ferrous metals extracted from the seabed.
• Reuse: Materials will be processed and reused where possible to minimize environmental impact and support sustainable practices.

Contractor Responsibilities

To meet the project’s objectives, contractors are responsible for the following key tasks:

• Heavy Transport: Move recovered assets to a designated laydown area for cleaning and recycling.
• Crane Works: Utilise Nikau’s 300-tonne crane to lift and transport all assets to the laydown area.
• Ultra High Pressure Waterblasting: Clean assets to remove marine growth and prepare them for processing.
• Deconstruction: Comprehensive dismantling of all ground wires and anchors.
• Scrap Recycling: Process and recycle over 800 tonnes of ferrous metals recovered offshore.
• Heavy Machinery Operations: Employ demolition equipment and heavy machinery for efficient deconstruction.

Project Challenges and Solutions

The OMV Anchors and Ground Wires Decommissioning Project presented significant challenges due to its scale and complexity. These included managing hazardous conditions and coordinating logistics for the recovery and recycling of substantial amounts of materials. Nikau’s team addressed these challenges by developing practical and effective solutions, ensuring the project was executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental and operational standards.

For more information on the OMV Anchors and Ground Wires Decommissioning Project, please contact us