Saipem has started operations for Suriname’s first large-scale offshore oil development, operated by TotalEnergies, as part of its subsea umbilicals, risers and flowlines (SURF) contract awarded in 2024.
Saipem is in charge of the engineering, procurement, supply, construction, installation, pre-commissioning and assistance for the commissioning and start-up of the SURF package, at water depths ranging from 100 to 1,100 meters, for the GranMorgu project.
The Italian firm reported on June 23 that the arrival of the multipurpose construction vessel Normand Navigator at the commercial port of Jules Sedney Harbour, in Paramaribo, marks the start of its operations for the project, with the vessel moored and set to begin the preliminary activities.
For the offshore campaign, Saipem will deploy a combination of S-Lay and J-Lay vessels. A dual-marine base approach will see the firm use a logistics hub at Jules Sedney Harbour, which, spanning an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 m2, is dedicated to the reception, handling, and storage of all incoming pipes, equipment, and standard containers before they are loaded onto supply vessels bound for the offshore fields.
The DORDT marine support base, also in Paramaribo, will serve to receive, store, and manage heavy subsea structures and manifolds.
The GranMorgu project is operated by TotalEnergies (40%) alongside partners APA Corporation (40%) and Staatsolie (20%). It is located in Block 58, 150 kilometers off the coast, and represents Suriname’s first large-scale offshore oil development, with start-up expected in 2028.