Rig repurposing on Friede & Goldman’s task list as semi-sub seeks new lease on life

July 23, 2025, by Melisa Cavcic

Friede & Goldman (F&G), a Houston-based engineering firm specializing in the design and development of innovative offshore solutions, has won a new engineering assignment for the conversion of a semi-submersible offshore drilling unit (MODU) into an accommodation vessel.

ExD 1000M semi-submersible drilling platform renderings; Source: DSOC

The U.S. firm has signed an engineering agreement with Peak Ocean Offshore for the design and engineering of a semi-submersible accommodation conversion project, formalizing its role as the design and engineering authority for the assignment.

The planned asset conversion and lifecycle optimization entails converting a legacy F&G ExD design semi-submersible rig into a high-capacity offshore accommodation unit. This latest project is said to highlight the firm’s evolving portfolio in supporting offshore accommodation solutions across global markets.

The rig repurposing deal is perceived to leverage Peak Ocean’s expertise in asset repurposing and operational efficiency, and reinforcing F&G’s reputation as a technical partner for complex offshore conversions and upgrades.

Roberto Salinas, Director of Projects at Friede & Goldman, commented: “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to innovation, safety, and engineering excellence in the offshore sector.

“This project represents a growing trend in the offshore industry – finding alternate uses for drilling rigs to extend asset life and maximize utilization. Our team brings proven expertise in repurposing offshore assets for new roles.”

This deal comes months after Friede & Goldman decided to team up with China’s Dalian Shipbuilding Offshore Co. (DSOC) to jointly launch the newly developed ExD 1000M semi-submersible drilling rig to the market.