Independent Oil and Gas (IOG) has completed construction of the Blythe and Southwark platforms for the flagship “Core” project in the North Sea.
The two normally unmanned Bylthe and Southwark installations were constructed at the HSM Offshore yard in Schiedam, Netherlands.
IOG said the onshore commissioning and testing activities are expected to be completed in May for the Core platforms.
Transportation barges are now at the HSM quayside for loadout with sail-away to follow.
IOG said installation of both Blythe and Southwark is scheduled for completion before the end of Q2, in preparation for first gas in late Q3.
Core is a multi-phase development in the Southern North Sea, comprised of several different discoveries containing around 410 billion cubic feet of gas.
IOG has released a video showing a timelapse of the construction process, providing an introduction to the topsides and onboard equipment.
CEO Andrew Hockey said: “Completing the Blythe and Southwark platforms is another key step forward for IOG in executing Phase 1 and laying the foundations for further growth.
“HSM have done an excellent job in maintaining the construction schedule despite the pandemic challenges. The focus now turns to completing onshore commissioning work, load-out, transport and installation, all of which fall under the same HSM contract.
“As small, remotely-operated installations, the Blythe and Southwark platforms will help us to minimise ongoing costs and carbon intensity – key elements of our operating philosophy as we look to scale up an environmentally low-impact UK gas development and production business.
Our latest video provides investors direct insight into both platforms with an on-board view of their key components before they are transported to their field locations later this quarter.”
Jaco Lemmerzaal, managing director of HSM, added: “Working closely with IOG with a joint focus on efficient delivery, we are very proud of the construction of the Blythe and Southwark platforms being achieved on schedule.”
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