Shell evacuates North Sea platform after power supply problems

Shell has evacuated workers from its Nelson platform in the UK part of the North Sea after a power outage.

The information was first published on a Facebook page called “The Rig Workers Rant”, which shared that the non-essential personnel was flown to the Borgholm Dolphin accommodation rig also know as flotel.

According to The Rig Workers Rant, which shared an update from a person who was apparently aboard the platform at the time, the decision to evacuate was made after several attempts to restore the power failed.

“First chopper of 9, arrived at 2:30 pm to down man us to the flotel. Chopper number 2 had to make an emergency landing on the Forties Delta due to a warning light, all crew from that chopper eventually made it to the flotel,” a statement by an unnamed platform worker reads.

The news has been confirmed by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which, when contacted by Offshore Energy Today, said it has been informed by Shell of partial downmanning.

Shell did not reply to an e-mail seeking comment sent by Offshore Energy Today.

The Nelson installation is a Shell-operated platform located 124 miles East North East of Aberdeen.

Update: Shell statement, August 20 (6: 47 pm CET)

In an e-mail sent to Offshore Energy Today a Shell spokesperson said:

“Shell UK Limited can confirm that there was a power outage yesterday on the Nelson platform, which is located approximately 124 miles East North East of Aberdeen.  Nelson was shut down for maintenance at the time and was not producing oil or gas.

 “Work to restore main power on the platform continues with essential staff on board. As a precaution a non-emergency operation to remove staff to the nearby Borgholm Dolphin flotel was carried out yesterday. Personnel will be transported back to the Nelson platform or to Aberdeen over the next 48 hours as appropriate. There are no reports of any injuries as a result of this outage.

 “The relevant authorities have been informed.”