IOG still on schedule for Core Project first gas in 3Q 2021

UK-based Independent Oil and Gas (IOG) is still on target to achieve first gas from Phase 1 of its Core Project in the UK Southern North Sea (SNS) in the third quarter of 2021.

IOG said on Wednesday that the fabrication of the Phase 1 Southwark and Blythe platforms at HSM Offshore’s yard in Schiedam was still on track for mechanical completion in the first quarter of 2021 and installation in the second quarter of 2021

The company added that the Southwark and Blythe deck stacking and internal fit-out is progressing and construction of both jackets are also “well underway”.

Work to date has not been interrupted regardless of Covid-19 restrictions which were strengthened at the yard due to the increased risks over recent weeks.

But the company did warn that, while every effort is being made to maintain business as usual, a prolonged disruption to working practices over coming months could put additional burden on the supply chain and impact operations.

Pipelay campaign for the 6-inch Elgood and Blythe 12-inch lines connecting to the Blythe platform and 24-inch Thames Pipeline respectively is expected to complete later in November.

This follows extensive preparatory work at IOG’s pipeline routes and at crossing points for other lines, as per regulatory requirements, and line pipe welding and spooling onshore at Subsea 7’s Leith base.

It is worth noting that weather conditions during the campaign to date have been relatively unsettled, resulting in some challenging offshore weather conditions.

IOG also stated that other required subsea tie-in equipment and the Elgood umbilical were being fabricated or available for installation.

To remind, the company announced on Tuesday that it hired the Noble Hans Deul jack-up rig from Noble Corporation to drill the five Phase 1 wells, with options for up to two further wells on favourable terms.

The Phase 1 drilling campaign is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2021 and, subject to actual well durations over the five wells, is expected to last into the second quarter of 2022.