Energy giant Shell and offshore robotic ship operator Ocean Infinity have made a pact to execute multiclient “seep hunter” projects together.
Ocean Infinity, which has bases in the US and UK, said combining its Armada fleet of robotic ships with Shell’s seep hunting know-how would provide more effective, large-scale, deep-water coverage.
Using “uncrewed” vessels will also make seep hunting safer and more sustainable, the firm said.
Seep hunter and geochemical campaigns can lower the cost of exploration programmes, according to geology and reservoir engineering publication GEO ExPro.
It explains that seeps bring hydrocarbon-bearing fluids from the subsurface to the seabed, where samples can be taken.
Subsequent analysis can provide information on reservoir content, helping companies refine further exploration work and make final investment decisions.
Katya Krylova, vp business development, oil and gas exploration services, Ocean Infinity, said: “Historically the most fruitful and successful collaborations are formed during the most challenging times.
“Ocean Infinity is very excited to begin our new multiclient data chapter, and we are especially delighted to commence this endeavour with Shell”, said
“The deployment of the Armada fleet will mark a major technological advance in the industry and redefine traditional ways of working.
“Refining our ability to conduct tasks such as seep hunting using uncrewed technology opens up possibilities in so many other areas.
“The experience gained as a result of this collaboration could prove transferable to other offshore tasks such as carbon capture storage (CCS) monitoring.”