Pipeline Seabed Geophysical Survey Contract Award: Anning & Somerville Fields
Ocean News
Figure 1. The Gardline Multi-Role Survey Vessel “Ocean Observer” (Image credit: Hartshead Resources)
Hartshead Resources NL (Hartshead, HHR or the Company) and the JV partner Rockrose Energy (part of Viaro Group) are pleased to announce that the Company has awarded a contract for a Geophysical Pipeline Survey for the Anning and Somerville fields to Gardline Limited (Gardline), following a competitive tender and subsequent technical and commercial bid evaluation.
It is expected that the MV Ocean Observer (Figure 1), an 80.4-meter Multi Role Survey Vessel, will be used for the work program. The Ocean Observer will be mobilized to the Anning and Somerville field locations to commence the pipeline survey in September 2023.
The main objectives of the geophysical survey are to provide the Company with confirmation of the seabed and sub seabed soil conditions to finalize the design and the efficient installation of the export pipeline route from the Anning and Somerville locations. The survey will utilize the following components:
- Multibeam echosounder—hull mounted;
- Side scan sonar towed approximately 8 m above seabed;
- Magnetometer piggy-backed to side scan sonar;
- Sub-bottom profiler, hull mounted;
- Environmental cameras, environmental grab sampler;
- Vibrocorer and mini-CPT system to take samples/measurements in the top 6 m below seabed.
Onshore/offshore laboratory testing which shall be performed in accordance with international standards and procedures (i.e. ISO, ASTM, BSI, NS, ISRM, or equivalent).
Chris Lewis the Hartshead CEO, said: "The pipeline route survey is a critical step in our commitment to developing sustainable energy infrastructure while prioritizing safety and environmental preservation. We are dedicated to working closely with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that our pipeline project meets the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. I would like to again thank the Hartshead team for all their work rapidly moving our development forward and our Joint Venture partner, RockRose, for their support.”
Francesco Mazzagatti, CEO of Viaro Energy, commented: “We have been very happy with the progress made on the development of Anning and Somerville so far. The efficiency with which the NSTA approved the deal, recent important milestones met and this securing of the geophysical survey are a testament to the capabilities of both the Hartshead and Rockrose teams, and I appreciate everyone’s work and collaboration. We are currently preparing our application for the operatorship of the fields and expect the FID to go equally smoothly later in the year.”
