DNV GL selected for Trion FPU job by BHP

Global verification and classification body DNV GL will verify that the new infrastructure built for BHP’s Trion project in Mexico is compliant with local and global safety as well as other requirements.

The Verification Body and Classification contract specifies DNV GL to participate in design review activities and site surveillance during construction, commissioning, and installation of the floating production unit (FPU).

To remind, earlier this month, McDermott has been put in charge of the preliminary Front-End Engineering Design (pre-FEED) extension phase for the Trion FPU.

In an update on Wednesday, DNV GL said it has been awarded a multidisciplinary contract by BHP to provide classification, verification, and independent analysis of the Trion FPU.

Located approximately 19 miles (35 kilometres) south of the U.S./Mexico border and approximately 112 miles (200 kilometres) from the Mexican coastline, the FPU will be installed in a water depth of approximately 8,200 feet (2,500 meters).

BHP holds a 60 per cent interest in the development and PEMEX a 40 per cent interest.

“The Trion oil field development is historic in the Mexican gulf and a milestone for all of us involved”, said Frank Ketelaars, Regional Manager, Americas, DNV GL – Oil & Gas.

The contracted verification scope DNV GL will carry out includes full project compliance to the Mexican offshore regulations, NOMs (Official Mexican) standards and BHP’s safety case requirements.

The scope of work also includes several independent analyses from DNV GL to be conducted during the front-end engineering design and detailed design phase of the project.

“I am delighted BHP has recognized that we possess the technical expertise and knowledge, particularly with respect to local regulatory requirements, to assure the safety and compliance for this deepwater project”, concluded  Ketelaars.

BHP is targeting a projected breakeven of below $50 per boe. Project sanction is possible from the 2022 financial year, with earliest first oil from 2025.