Port of Aberdeen: Leading the way in North Sea decommissioning

Exploring the advancements and opportunities in decommissioning at Port of Aberdeen

Port of Aberdeen: Leading the way in North Sea decommissioning
The North Sea is undergoing a significant transformation as the demand for decommissioning services continues to rise. Earlier this year, the North Sea Transition Authority projected that UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) operators would invest approximately £24 billion in decommissioning activities over the next two decades.

This figure marks an increase of £3 billion compared to previous forecasts, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable practices in the energy sector.

Port of Aberdeen’s strategic advantages

As one of the largest decommissioning facilities in Europe, the Port of Aberdeen is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this burgeoning industry.

With a robust infrastructure that includes over 7,600 meters of quayside capable of accommodating vessels up to 300 meters in length, the port is equipped to handle large-scale decommissioning projects efficiently. Its ultra heavy-lift capabilities, reaching up to 140 tonnes per square meter, further enhance its operational capacity.

The port’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its Waste Management Licence from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, allowing it to provide comprehensive offshore decommissioning services. The facilities are designed with an impermeable heavy-duty concrete base and designated areas for hazardous waste, including Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM), ensuring safe and responsible operations.

Innovative projects and collaborations

In July 2024, the Port of Aberdeen was selected to support a major decommissioning project, showcasing its growing reputation in the industry. The DeepOcean’s Edda Freya offshore supply vessel successfully offloaded the North Sea’s largest Subsea Isolation Valve (SSIV), weighing 440 tonnes, marking a significant milestone in decommissioning efforts. This project alone has brought in over 10,000 tonnes of subsea material, demonstrating the port’s capacity for handling substantial operations.

Additionally, Phoenix Decom utilized the port’s extensive laydown space for a landside decommissioning project involving DOF Subsea. This project required the onshore receipt and safe preparation of approximately 10 kilometers of flexible flowlines and umbilicals, emphasizing the port’s logistical capabilities. The design of South Harbour allowed for efficient processing and cutting operations, consolidating multiple steps at a single location and minimizing risks associated with asset movement.

Setting industry standards

The Port of Aberdeen continues to set the standard for decommissioning operations in the North Sea. By combining world-class facilities with a commitment to environmental stewardship, the port is not only addressing the challenges of decommissioning but also driving innovation and value for its partners. The successful execution of projects with zero health, safety, and environmental (HSE) incidents underscores the port’s dedication to operational excellence.

As the energy landscape evolves, the Port of Aberdeen remains at the forefront, seamlessly connecting customers to the resources they need, when they need them. Its strategic location, coupled with a robust supply chain of energy engineering expertise, positions the port as a premier hub for decommissioning activities in the North Sea.