POWER INTERCONNECTION BETWEEN TWO EXISTING DEEP-WATER FPSOs - A KEY ENABLER FOR PRODUCTION INCREASE

The first-ever power interconnection between existing Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units, including retrofit of existing power generation and integration of an overall Power Management System, has enable the implementation of subsea multiphase pumping to activate the existing production loops. Despite gas lift activation at riser base, the back pressure generated by pressure drop in the subsea network was limiting the liquid production of the high productivity wells. Providing a pressure boost in the production network using the subsea multiphase pumps enabled to lower the well head pressure, thus increasing production rates and ultimate recovery. The paper will present the miscellaneous technical challenges that have been faced during the project development from the early design stage down to commissioning, start up and operation of both FPSOs as an integrated asset while maintaining and enhancing the full oil and gas production. It will cover both surface and subsurface aspects with the design and implementation of power generation upgrade, electrical network modifications, overall power management system involving load sharing and load shedding as well as the interconnecting power cable (IPC) with specific dynamic sections and the power supply and integration of the subsea multiphase pumps with an offset up to 18 km.