Transocean says semisubmersible features hybrid storage

Transocean Ltd. has deployed what it calls the first hybrid energy storage system aboard a floating drilling unit. The system is on the Transocean Spitsbergen harsh-environment, ultradeepwater, semisubmersible drilling rig, which is working currently in Equinor-operated Snorre field offshore Norway.

Transocean said its patented hybrid power technology, developed in partnership with Aspin Kemp & Associates, reduces fuel consumption and increases reliability of a dynamically positioned rig by capturing energy generated during normal rig operations.

The energy is stored in batteries and used to power the rig’s thrusters.

This operational and safety enhancement targets a 14% reduction in fuel use during normal operations, leading to a reduction in air emissions.