Offshore Decommissioning: New Reefing Solution Unveiled

While the reefing of retiring offshore structures makes sense to many, such projects often struggle to address the regulatory hurdles, public perception and who takes the enduring liability for the asset, says decommissioning specialist Xodus Group, who has teamed with stabilization and artificial reef specialist Subcon International to offer a new solution.

The partners say their Integrated Rigs to Reefs (IR2R) solution will be available globally to resolve challenges owners face by augmenting and integrating the retiring assets into purpose built reefs.  

Enrico Salardi, Xodus Group’s Director of Decommissioning, said, “IR2RTM is a decommissioning solution which provides many benefits to oil and gas operators, governments, local industries, communities and ultimately to the environment.  The IR2RTM solution delivers material cost savings to operators whilst enabling them to turn a legacy asset into a positive legacy for the environment.

“Importantly, this industry-first offering provides a clear pathway for the transfer of ownership to state agencies.”

The partnership combines Xodus’ decommissioning capabilities with Subcon’s track record in the design and construction of purpose-built marine habitats.

While the rigs to reef solution has a proven track record for generating decommissioning cost savings and for creating effective habitat, the question of who has enduring liability for the structure remains open, Xodus noted. The IR2R model employs methods of relocation, augmentation and integration to completely reinvent the retired structures as productive, purpose built artificial reefs. Ownership and liability for the new asset is then able to be transferred to appropriate government agencies.

Subcon International CEO, Matthew Allen added, “Our collaboration with Xodus enables more operators to benefit from our innovative IR2RTM model. The creation of new, purpose built habitat through the integration and augmentation of retiring marine structures, means degraded habitats can be restored and new habitats established. It reduces costs for the operator, reduces waste onshore, and establishes a more vibrant and productive marine environment for future users. It is a true win-win for all stakeholders.”