ABS issued an approval in principle to Netherlands-based SBM Offshore for its concept of a near zero floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) unit.
The NearZero FPSO design incorporates low carbon technologies that collectively create a “near zero” Scope 3 carbon emissions profile, achieving up to 80% reduction in GHG emissions. The introduction of the NearZero FPSO is an important step in SBM’s strategic path to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. ABS completed design reviews based on class and statutory requirements.
Low carbon technologies featured in the FPSO concept at a systems level include all electric topsides, closed flare, carbon capture and seawater intake riser/deep intake sea hose – technologies that SBM says not only reduce carbon emissions but also power demands.
SBM Offshore had earlier said that there would be about 40 potential FPSO projects in the next three years, of which about 40% would fall within the company’s target market.
To meet decarbonization requirements, SBM Offshore and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) have recently joined forces to conduct a study for the application of CO2 capture modules on future FPSOs in Petrobras’ offshore fields.
Meanwhile, American Bureau of Shipping, a long-time supporter of FPSO projects, has intensified its cooperation with Akselos and has completed a technical evaluation of structural digital twin technology to improve safety and optimize downtime in FPSOs.