Equinor Energy AS and partners have commenced work to shut down Veslefrikk field in Norwegian North Sea Block 30/3. An environmental impact assessment was conducted, and a decommissioning plan sent to authorities in autumn 2020. Shutdown of the field is planned for spring 2022. After over 30 years onstream, the field has produced more than 400 MMboe.
Veslefrikk B is a semisubmersible production platform tied into the Veslefrikk A fixed wellhead platform. In 2002 the field became the host of Huldra with a shared control room and crew. Veslefrikk is operated from Sandsli outside Bergen, where it is organized together with the operation of the Oseberg area.
Before Veslefrikk B can be brought ashore, wells must be plugged, platform systems must be shut down and cleaned, and oil and gas export pipelines must be cleaned and disconnected. A total of 24 wells will be plugged from the drilling system in an effort that began in January under existing framework contracts. Archer holds the contract for rig operations. Baker and Ardyne are contracted for drilling and well services.
Veslefrikk B will be towed to shore for dismantling in autumn 2022. Veslefrikk A is scheduled for removal in 2025-2026.
Contracts for removal and dismantling of Veslefrikk A, dismantling and recycling of Veslefrikk B, and seabed work in connection with export pipeline cleaning and disconnection are scheduled for award in this year’s first half.
Equinor is operator of the field (18%) with partners Petoro AS (37%), Repsol Norge AS (27%), and Wintershall DEA Norge AS (18%).
