Jackdaw platform EPCI contract handed to Aker Solutions

Aker Solutions will handle the EPCI remit on Shell's Jackdaw gas project in the UK North Sea, delivering a not-permanently attended platform following the project's FID sanctioning earlier this month, Aker said August 2.

Aker will deploy its resources to deliver a complete steel-structured wellhead platform, starting with a pre-drilling deck set for delivery 2023, and then a topside unit due the following year. The contract adds 2 - 3bn kroner ($205.2mn - $307.7mn) to Aker's third quarter order intake.

The EPCI fabrication programme will be managed by Aker's shipyard in Verdal, Norway. It also includes "related load-out" activities and Jackdaw's offshore hook-up and commissioning.

Aker Solutions secured the tender on the strength of its credentials delivering Jackdaw's front-end engineering and design, under a contract issued by Shell in mid-2019.

Around 300 people will be deployed on the EPCI project at the height of construction work, while Aker will also enlist resources from two project delivery suppliers in Norway: engineering and design firm Ramboll and EPC aluminium supplier Leirvik.

Sturla Magnus, who heads up Aker's topsides and facilities business, said: "We are pleased that Shell selects us to develop a cost-effective platform for this major North Sea gas field.

"We will build on our strong topside solutions and executions model, which involves reusing facilities and equipment and bringing onboard solid experience from similar developments, from both internal Aker Solutions resources and external partners."

Jackdaw's positive FID was announced July 25, following a protracted approvals process that saw regulators initially block the project on environmental grounds. The development plan was then amended to incorporate new venting and treatment processes, receiving the regulatory go-ahead on May 27.

Following first gas in 2024, Jackdaw is expected to reach peak output of 40,000 barrels of oil equivalent/day. Current reserves estimates indicate the field contains 120mn to 150mn barrels of oil equivalent, though it is unclear how much of this is recoverable.