IOG today confirmed that the Blythe and Southwark gas platforms, which will operate as normally unmanned installations (NUIs), have successfully been installed at their respective offshore field locations in Q2, in line with the project schedule.

Final picture on departure from fully installed Blythe platform, with Dudgeon wind farm in background

For both platforms, after the suction pile foundations were fixed on the seabed and jacket legs cut to height, topsides lift operations were undertaken by the Seaway Strashnov heavy lift vessel. After the final welding of the connections between the topsides and jacket the IOG, HSM Offshore ("HSM") and ODE Asset Management ("ODE AM") teams then performed all the necessary inspections and checks. Main power was switched on, communications with the onshore control room was established, and the requisite post installation remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys were undertaken, before both platforms were signed off as complete.

Andrew Hockey, CEO of IOG, commented: 
"Safe, successful and timely installation of the Blythe and Southwark unmanned platforms is another important milestone for our Phase 1 development. These facilities are integral to our infrastructure-led hub strategy and form a pivotal link between our co-owned and operated offshore pipeline network and our onshore Thames Reception Facilities at Bacton Terminal. With forecast average power demand as low as 33kW they are also an important part of our low-carbon operating philosophy.

This installation is the final element of the EPCI contract we awarded last year to HSM Offshore, with whom we are pleased to have collaborated successfully to bring these platforms to fruition."

KeyFacts Energy: IOG UK country profile