RIASSUNTO
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to provide an outline of current decommissioning guidelines andtypical practices, and to explore cost effective ways in which companies can navigate through this multifaceted process. This is demonstrated via a revealing case study which illuminates an optimum, cost effective decommissioning methodology for offshore facilities and structures, which is closely aligned with emerging decommissioning guidelines and regulations and with industry best practices.
Decommissioning is governed by local regulations and is triggered by a number of specific factors, such as when the remaining reserves are less than 40%, or when the concession has a remaining period of less than 5 years, or in some cases when production has ceased. Normally, at some points in the process, security deposits are placed by the operator, which can be significant. Since this cost is seen as a liability and is based on an estimated decommissioning costs, a cost effective, yet regulatory compliant solution is required. This paper discusses various best practice technical strategies for decommissioning, which can be applied in the South East Asia (SEA) region, and throughout the world. The strategies proposed can result in an estimated operator saving of over 30% over the entire decommissioning execution expenditure. The processes that are discussed are included in the typical steps of preliminary design, detailed design and execution.