This project is notable for being the industry's first large-scale all-electric subsea production system, a technological breakthrough that will enable a cost-effective and low-emission tieback solution in the North Sea.
In a landmark development for the global energy sector, SLB OneSubsea, a joint venture backed by SLB, has secured a significant Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract from Equinor for the Fram Sør field, located on the Norwegian continental shelf. This contract is a pivotal moment for the industry, as it marks the first deployment of a large-scale, all-electric subsea production system. This innovative approach is set to usher in a new era of efficiency and sustainability for oil and gas energy operations.
The contract is the culmination of a year-long, collaborative Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) phase between Equinor and SLB OneSubsea. This joint effort was instrumental in maturing the project to its final investment decision (FID). Under the terms of the EPC agreement, SLB OneSubsea will be responsible for delivering four subsea templates and 12 all-electric subsea trees. This technology represents a significant departure from traditional systems by eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid supplied from the host platform, a change that not only simplifies operations but also minimizes the need for extensive topside modifications.
By reducing the required infrastructure on the host platform, this all-electric solution provides a highly cost-effective and space-efficient way to develop the Fram Sør field. The retained topside space is a crucial benefit, as it can be utilized for future expansion projects in the area, ensuring long-term flexibility and resource maximization.
According to Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea, the Fram Sør project is a "breakthrough for our industry." He highlighted that all-electric subsea solutions are not only vital for making large-scale tiebacks like Fram Sør possible but also for unlocking more marginal resources. The reduced footprint and simplified operations of these systems make previously uneconomical fields viable for development.
The Fram Sør project is planned as a subsea tieback to the existing Troll C host platform in the North Sea. This strategic connection will contribute to Europe's energy security by bringing new resources on stream. Furthermore, the development's environmental footprint is expected to be exceptionally low, as the Troll C platform is powered from Norwegian shores. This shore-based power supply results in very low emissions from the Fram Sør production.
The contract award is currently subject to regulatory approval of the Plan for Development and Operations (PDO). The successful execution of this project is expected to set a new standard for subsea developments, demonstrating how advanced technology can enable more sustainable, efficient, and profitable energy production in mature basins.
