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New Energy World
New Energy World embraces the whole energy industry as it connects and converges to address the decarbonisation challenge. It covers progress being made across the industry, from the dynamics under way to reduce emissions in oil and gas, through improvements to the efficiency of energy conversion and use, to cutting-edge initiatives in renewable and low carbon technologies.
Responsible recycling: addressing the challenges of decommissioning Dunlin Alpha
27/3/2024
8 min read
Energy operators have responsibility for decommissioning aged offshore structures – returning the seabed to its original state to ensure both environmental conservation and regulatory compliance. The subsequent recycling of subsea assets closes the circular economy loop, as demonstrated on the Dunlin Alpha field. Endre Johansen of DeepOcean Group explains how the complex work-scope was de-risked and carried out safely, efficiently and sustainably.
As oil and gas fields deplete and offshore wind farms reach end-of-life, the offshore structures must be dismantled, removed and recycled. DeepOcean is one of many supplier companies that have specialist capabilities and extensive experience in such services.
Prior to any offshore work, early-phase feasibility studies and detailed environmental impact assessments are conducted to ensure that forthcoming offshore operations can be managed safely and without any unnecessary harm to the environment.
In some instances, following the environmental assessment, ‘leave in place’ is the better choice, as infrastructure that has been in place for many years may create new ecosystems which have greater biodiversity than surrounding areas. If the removal of the subsea infrastructure is considered to be beneficial, then restoration of the good environmental status of marine ecosystems in the execution of the project is paramount.