Mike Mullen Energy Equipment Resources Inc., Dallas, Tex., acquired the Bohai 6 jack up drilling rig from China Offshore Oil Northern Drilling Co. for an undisclosed sum. Officials said this is the first time China has sold an offshore drilling rig. The jack up, which can drill in 250 ft of water, will be renamed the Odin Spirit. For the time being, the new owner will hot stack the rig at the Dalian New Shipyard.
Talisman Energy Inc., Calgary, commissioned an $11 million gas conservation system at its Chauvin oil field south of Lloydminster, Alta. The system will reduce flaring and venting in the area. The system will gather, sweeten, and conserve up to 5 MMcfd of previously flared and vented natural gas from more than 250 oil wells and 10 batteries.
Maersk Contractors exercised an option for a second ultraharsh environment jack up drilling rig from Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., South Korea. Delivery of this second rig will occur at end 2002. The first rig, ordered in April 2000, is due for delivery in the summer of 2002. The rigs are designed for the harsh environments of the northern part of the North Sea and other harsh-weather conditions. The units will be able to work in these areas in 150 m of water. The rigs will be able to drill subsea wells in addition to traditional surface completed wells.
Amoco Production Co., an affiliate of BP, awarded to Helmerich & Payne Inc. 3-year contracts for five rigs to work in the Wamsutter field of Wyoming. Terms were not disclosed.
