Nortrans Offshore wins flotel work on Romanian gas project
Nortrans Offshore Secures Charter Deal with Saipem
Singapore-based Nortrans Offshore has recently announced a significant charter agreement with the renowned Italian offshore engineering and construction company, Saipem. This partnership involves the deployment of the maintenance and support vessel, Temis, for a crucial project in the Black Sea. The Temis, a flotel built in 2015, will play a vital role in the Neptun Deep gas development project, which is located in the Romanian sector of the Black Sea. This deal marks a notable step forward in offshore energy operations in the region.
Details of the Charter Agreement
The charter for the Temis is set for an initial duration of 160 days, with an option to extend for an additional 170 days. While the financial specifics of the contract remain undisclosed, the operational significance of this agreement is clear. The Temis is designed to accommodate up to 500 personnel, making it well-suited for large-scale offshore operations. Its primary responsibilities will include supporting the hook-up and commissioning phase of the Neptun Deep project, as well as assisting in the safe start-up of work procedures.
This is not the first time the Temis has been involved in significant offshore projects. In November of the previous year, the vessel secured a contract with Equinor to support the hook-up and commissioning of the Bacalhau Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit. That contract is scheduled to last five months, starting in early 2025, with a potential five-month extension. These contracts highlight the vessel’s versatility and reliability in complex offshore environments.
Impact of the Neptun Deep Project
The Neptun Deep gas development project is poised to be a game-changer for Romania’s energy landscape. It is the largest natural gas initiative in the Romanian Black Sea and marks the country’s first deepwater offshore project. With an estimated total volume of around 100 billion cubic meters of natural gas, Neptun Deep is set to position Romania as the largest gas producer in the European Union. This development will not only enhance Romania’s energy security but also contribute significantly to the EU’s overall gas supply.
The exploration, development, and production rights for the Neptun Deep block are jointly held by OMV Petrom and Romgaz, each holding a 50% stake. OMV Petrom serves as the project operator, ensuring that the development progresses smoothly. Construction of the topsides for the offshore gas platform commenced at Saipem’s yard in Karimun, Indonesia, in May 2024. This project is expected to create numerous jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region, further solidifying Romania’s role in the European energy market.
