Powered wired drill pipe to boost sustainability in Vår Energi’s offshore ops

Norway-headquartered well construction and well intervention solutions provider Reelwell has secured a contract with compatriot oil and gas player Vår Energi for the delivery of its powered wired drill pipe, with Odfjell Technology acting as its strategic partner.

The contract will see the DualLink powered digital drill pipe technology deployed offshore on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) for the first time.

According to Odfjell Technology, the system integrates real-time telemetry with wellbore power, delivering enhanced operational control and ensuring uninterrupted power to downhole tools as well as improving data transmission throughout the drilling process.

The initial contract covers operations on the COSLPioneer rig for one year, with the option of four additional one-year extensions, as well as an option to expand the scope to include all Vår Energi’s installations across the North Sea, depending on future operational requirements.

Reelwell is responsible for the overall delivery of the contract, including the provision of the DualLink technology, and overseeing the collection and analysis of critical drilling data.

Odfjell Technology is responsible for all the necessary drill pipe components and accessories for the project, as well as overseeing the maintenance requirements, in support of Reelwell’s services and the COSLPioneer rig, and handling the logistics and on-site support for the rig.

The strategic collaboration agreement that Odfjell Technology and Reelwell established in 2024 secures up to ten years of exclusivity for the delivery of this service in the North Sea market.

“We are looking forward to collaborating with Reelwell and Vår Energi in this technological step change, unlocking a large potential for future drilling and completion operations with the DualLink technology,” said Elisabeth Haram, EVP Well Services at Odfjell Technology.

“The use of innovative powered wired drill pipe technology and real-time data collection will support Vår Energi’s sustainability objectives, reducing both carbon emissions and improving operational efficiency.”